Return only when officials say it is safe
Follow the authorized re-entry route and observe building damage placards. Before entering, look for structural hazards, downed electrical lines, gas odours, hot spots and contaminated water. If the building is marked unsafe or conditions appear dangerous, stay out and contact the appropriate authority.
只有在官方確認安全後才返回
請按照指定路線返回，並留意建築物損壞評估標示。進入前，檢查結構危險、倒下的電線、煤氣氣味、餘火及受污染水源。如果建築物被標示為不安全，或現場情況危險，請勿進入並聯絡有關部門。
Document before cleaning
Photograph exterior and interior damage, smoke residue, ash, affected belongings and spoiled food before cleanup or disposal. Keep notes about odours, power interruption and rooms affected. Ask the insurer whether a qualified restoration contractor should inspect or test the property before cleaning begins.
清理前先記錄損害
在清理或丟棄物品前，拍攝住宅外部與內部損壞、煙漬、灰燼、受影響財物及變壞食物。記錄異味、停電時間及受影響房間。開始清理前，請向保險公司查詢是否應由合資格的修復承包商先行檢查或測試住宅。
Smoke and ash damage may require professional work
A home can have significant smoke, soot or ash contamination even when flames did not reach the structure. Depending on the cause and policy, covered work may include specialized cleaning, deodorizing, replacement of affected materials or other restoration. Cosmetic concerns, maintenance and pre-existing damage may be treated differently.
煙霧及灰燼損害可能需要專業處理
即使火焰沒有燒到建築物，住宅仍可能受到嚴重煙霧、煙灰或灰燼污染。根據損失原因及保單條款，受保工程可能包括專業清潔、除味、更換受影響物料或其他修復工作。外觀問題、日常維護及既有損壞可能有不同處理。
Coordinate repairs and keep records
Do not begin permanent repairs until the insurer has had a reasonable opportunity to assess the damage, except for urgent steps needed to protect the property. Use reputable contractors, obtain written estimates and permits when required, and keep all contracts, invoices, receipts and communications.
協調維修並保存完整記錄
除非為保護財產而必須採取緊急措施，否則在保險公司有合理機會評估損害前，不要開始永久維修。請選用信譽良好的承包商，取得書面報價及所需許可證，並保存所有合同、發票、收據及通訊記錄。