<prompt> Human: The house is completely destroyed. What steps should she take to maintain financial security? She doesnt have much in savings, but still has a decent job 50k. Has a 1 year old child.  <response>: First off sorry to hear this. I work with the home insurance industry and have seen some terrible stories unfold but. . . first things first. Have her contact her insurance agentcompany to initiate the claims process. The reason I say to do this first, is sometimes they can help with housing, food, clothing etc. or at least point her in the right direction. 2nd- Red Cross is a very good option, as cholley stated. 3rd- And this is a hard pill for some to swallow, but just be thankful that everyone made it out ok. Things can be replaced, people cannot. 4th- Dont take the approach that someone i.e. the insurance company is out to get you. I would personally disregard any comments on here about settlements, holding out or going in this with a negative mindset. Be fair and expect fairness in return, and if that isnt met explore your options IF the process goes south. 5th- I dont know if anything is left, but at the very least mention to her that it would be wise to remove any and all financial items, even if its just to be destroyed checks,credit cards, statements etc.... Youd be amazed how people who hear of a terrible situation such as this, and go rooting through the house for anything they can pilfer.Above all else, it is usually not a quick process. But Id venture to say if everyone is ok, and she hadhas proper insurance with a good companyagent, most people Ive seen end up back to normal or better off by the time everything gets sorted. 