Common items and the usual guidance
| Item | Usually | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Open food, produce and anything in permeable packaging | Discard | Smoke and soot penetrate packaging and can leave toxic residue |
| Canned goods exposed to high heat | Discard | Heat can damage cans and spoil contents; bulging or rusted cans are unsafe |
| Canned goods only lightly exposed to smoke | Possibly keep after cleaning the outside | Follow public health guidance and when unsure, discard |
| Refrigerator and freezer food | Discard if power was off or smoke got in | Temperature and odor contamination |
| Prescription and over-the-counter medicine | Discard and ask the pharmacy about replacements | Heat and smoke can degrade medications |
| Cosmetics, lotions and toothbrushes | Discard | Absorb smoke and contact skin or mouth |
| Baby bottles, pacifiers and teethers | Discard | Cannot be reliably decontaminated |
| Plastic toys exposed to heavy smoke | Often discard; hard toys may be cleaned | Residue on surfaces children mouth |
| Glass, metal and ceramic dishes | Usually keep after thorough washing | Non-porous surfaces clean well |
Before you put anything in the trash
- Photograph shelves, the refrigerator and pantry as they are
- Write down brand names and quantities where you can
- Ask your adjuster whether they need to see discarded items first
- Keep the empty prescription bottles or labels for replacement and the claim
- Bag discarded food securely so it does not attract wildlife while the house sits
- Check with your trash hauler about large volumes or appliances
The gray areas
Items with sentimental value are where most people struggle. Photographs, letters, books and artwork can sometimes be cleaned by specialists even when they look ruined, and freezing wet paper items can buy time. Set them apart and ask a contents specialist before deciding.
Hard goods like small appliances, decor and tools sit in between. Many can be cleaned, but if the cleaning effort or cost approaches replacement, insurers often prefer to replace. Your inventory should note the decision for each one so the contents claim and the cleaning invoice line up.
Common questions
What about bottled water and sealed drinks?
Public health guidance generally treats drinks exposed to heat, smoke or firefighting water the same as food. Plastic bottles in particular can be affected by heat, so discard them if in doubt.
Can I keep cleaning supplies and paint from the garage?
Containers that were heated, bulged or scorched should be disposed of through a household hazardous waste program, not the regular trash. Check Arapahoe County or your city for drop-off options.
Will my insurance replace discarded food?
Food is commonly part of a contents claim. Photos and a list help; some policies have limits on certain categories, so ask your adjuster.
General information for Centennial, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.