Although we don’t know exactly when this will be for this particular fire, we can tell you that during the Woolsey fire, it was approximately three weeks to a month before people were able to go back to their homes. Stay in contact with local authorities and community members to find out when that will be.
What Happens to the rubble?
The State of California has a Consolidated Debris Removal program. We will include simplified information directly from the California Emergency Services Website but you can find more information here: https://news.caloes.ca.gov/returning-home-after-a-fire/
The Consolidated Debris Removal Program has two phases.
Phase 1: Local government, state and federal agencies will inspect your property to remove hazardous materials (batteries, herbicide, propane tanks, paints, etc.) Phase one is automatic and includes both residential and commercial properties destroyed by the fire.
Phase 2: FEMA and local officials coordinate with the Consolidated Debris Removal Program to conduct fire-related debris removal property if you have elected to participate in the program by completing and signing a Right of Entry Form.
What do I need to do?
Phase I (household hazardous waste): You do not need to do anything to have household hazardous waste removed from your property.
Phase II (remaining fire-related debris): To sign up for the Phase II Program, you will complete a Right-of-Entry (ROE) form to grant government contractors access to your property to conduct the debris removal. Please provide insurance information with the ROE Form as applicable.
After I turn in an ROE to my local government, what happens next?
First, the ROE Center reviews your ROE to ensure it has been filled out correctly. They will also cross-check property records to verify you are the property owner. Afterward, the ROE will be transferred to the Debris Management Teams for processing and scheduling.
How Can I Prepare Myself to Search Through the Rubble?
When we went to look at our property, it was recommended to us to buy workman’s gloves, painter’s pants, tops, and overalls, rated respiratory masks, and goggles as this helped protect skin and eyes from toxic material. In addition, the soot and dirt from the rubble easily rubs onto your skin.
Tools you will want to consider using are rakes and shovels as well as strong construction-rated clamps and tongs to move the debris. You can also bring a metal detector to search for valuable items.
We also recommend bringing bottled water jugs to clean off anything you find before putting it in boxes, tarps and bins to take away and organize what you find.
How Do I Replace My Vehicle if it’s Gone?
First, try to get photo evidence of your vehicle to make an insurance claim.