Personal & Family Recovery
Not all fires cause catastrophic damage, but when there is a loss of life or homes, or when fires are severe, it can take time for our landscapes and communities to recover. The length of time that it takes to recover is unique for each person – it may take several years or longer, depending on the situation.
People may experience a range of emotions after a wildfire: relief, hope, appreciation, anger, helplessness, frustration, sadness, and shock. And immediately after the fire, there is a risk of natural forces (flooding, debris flows, and downed trees) and loss of infrastructure (electricity, water, phone service, and everyday amenities) that can impact your health, safety, home, and landscape.
Whether you are in the immediate aftermath of a wildfire, or planning ahead, the resources on this page are intended to assist you wherever you are in the process.
Miguel Castro, CAFE Wenatchee
In 2023, the Washington Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network (WAFAC) developed a Resident Recovery Guide Workbook to help residents and organizations avoid post-fire hazards and begin to recover. It is intended to provide a start to the recovery process. It contains safety information, checklists, financial tips, and resources for assistance. It is intended to provide useful guidance through a difficult time, and to start you, your family, and your community on the road to recovery.
More Personal & Family Recovery Resources
Health and Safety
- Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water | Environmental Protection Agency
- Drinking Water Alerts | Washington Department of Health
- Recommendations for Staying Safe After a Wildfire | Center for Disease Control
- Safe Cleanup of Fire Ash | New Mexico Health Department
- Floods After Fires | Washington Department of Natural Resources
- Washington State Animal Response Team
Emergency Services (Housing, Food, Healthcare)
- Washington State and Local Disaster Assistance Referrals | FEMA
- How to Replace Vital Documents | USAGov
- Food Access Network Map | Northwest Harvest
- Salvation Army Centers | Salvation Army USA
- Find Open Shelters and Disaster Relief Services | Red Cross
- Housing Counseling Services | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Disaster Recovery Center Locator | FEMA
Finance
- Financial Recovery After a Disaster | Red Cross
- Taxpayer Relief | Department of Revenue
- Help Your Business Recover | National Disaster Recovery
- Disaster Scams | Oregon State Division of Financial Regulation
- Advice for Consumers and Business Owners | Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
- Mortgage Assistance | U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
