Many have lost their homes, their possessions, and a sense of security to relentless fires in California. 

Unlike other parts of the country where natural disasters might be rare, here, wildfires are a common threat. No one is truly safe from the devastation these fires bring. 

And if you’ve been through it and would like to seek justice from the law, a California wildfire lawyer can help you figure out if you have a case, which could make rebuilding a lot easier. It won’t undo what happened, but it could give you the financial support you need to start over.

Speaking of rebuilding, here are six tips to keep in mind when you’re rebuilding your life after a wildfire accident in California:

Take Advantage of the Available Help

After losing everything, it’s easy to feel isolated, like no one else understands what you’re going through. But the truth is, California has been here before. Communities across the state have experienced the same loss, and there are countless resources designed to help you rebuild.

Start by reaching out to organizations that specialize in disaster relief. The American Red Cross, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), and California’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) provide emergency assistance, temporary shelter, and even financial aid to those affected by wildfires. Many local charities and churches also stepped in to provide food, clothing, and emotional support to victims of these fires. 

Take Care of Your Health, Even If You Feel Fine

Wildfires can take a serious toll on your health, both physically and mentally. Even if you weren’t injured, exposure to smoke and ash can have long-term effects.

If you’re experiencing coughing, headaches, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, don’t ignore it. Wildfire smoke contains toxic chemicals from burned materials, and prolonged exposure can cause lung damage, heart issues, and even long-term respiratory diseases. 

If you haven’t already, see a doctor and get checked out. Many clinics in California offer free or low-cost health screenings after major wildfires. 

Document Everything 

Walking through the ruins of your home might be the last thing you want to do. But if you want to get the financial help you need, documentation is everything.

  • Take photos and videos of everything, including charred walls, damaged furniture, and even small items like burned clothing or broken appliances.
  • List all damaged or lost possessions. If you had receipts or photos of your belongings before the fire, gather them.
  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. The claims process can be slow, so the earlier you start, the better.
  • Apply for federal and state aid. FEMA and Cal OES offer disaster assistance programs that can help cover costs insurance doesn’t. 

Make a Plan, Even If It’s Small

At first, the idea of rebuilding might feel impossible. But even if you don’t know exactly what your future looks like yet, making a basic plan can make everything feel more manageable. 

Even if you don’t have all the answers, just thinking through these questions can give you a sense of direction. If you do decide to rebuild, consider fire-resistant materials and smarter land management to reduce your risk in the future. 

In California, new building codes require homes in high-risk areas to follow wildfire safety standards, so be sure to take advantage of that to protect yourself moving forward.

And be careful, though, because scammers like to prey on disaster victims. Only work with licensed, reputable contractors, and never pay large sums upfront. 

Rebuild With Your Community

After wildfires, entire communities often come together to help each other. In California, local businesses, neighbors, and volunteers stepped up to provide support. Getting involved in rebuilding efforts, even in small ways, can help you feel connected again.

And if your town was heavily affected, supporting local businesses can make a huge difference. Many small shops and restaurants struggle after a wildfire because so many people are displaced. Spending money locally can help your community recover together.

Heal and Rebuild At Your Own Pace

There’s no right way to recover from something like this. Some people dive straight into rebuilding, while others need time to process the loss before making big decisions. However you choose to move forward, just remember that it’s your journey.

Be kind to yourself, and be kind enough to celebrate the small wins and little progress. If you find temporary housing, if your insurance claim goes through, if you replace one lost item, these are all steps in the right direction. It won’t all happen at once, but as long as you keep moving forward, no matter how slowly, you’re making progress.