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This checklist is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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In general

• Document everything so you can recall the precise sequence of events and costs afterwards.
• Do not sign any waiver or lump-sum compensation without clearly knowing what you are entitled to

Immediately and depending on the victim's condition

• [ ] Get examined, even in the absence of visible injuries (check for any smoke inhalation, carbon monoxide poisoning, minor injuries) and have the findings documented.

• [ ] Photograph and document your injuries with your cell phone.

• [ ] Keep the clothes you were wearing, do not wash them and put them in a sealed trash bag.

• [ ] Write your own account of the events in a note on your phone and update it as soon as you remember anything else. Add to this account with each event (hospitalization, examination, etc.).

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  You can also dictate it to your smartphone. The important thing is to keep an account while the memory is still fresh.

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• [ ] Keep all your receipts / all proof of expenses that occur from the disaster onwards.

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  This also applies to expenses of loved ones. Also note travel, even with your private vehicle.

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• [ ] Systematically ask doctors to be copied on all their reports, examinations and other documents. Note their identity and contact information in your account.

• [ ] If your condition allows, consult a psychologist, if necessary by requesting LAVI assistance to do so, and follow their advice.

• [ ] If you have not been interviewed or registered by the police, call the hotline and make yourself known.

• [ ] Report to your travel insurance for immediate assistance if relevant.

• [ ] Request consular assistance if relevant from your State.

• [ ] Report to the relevant insurance companies:

  • [ ] Accident insurance;
  • [ ] Insurance that intervenes in case of loss of earning capacity (e.g., certain life insurance policies).

In a second phase but before two months

• [ ] Join the ongoing criminal investigation, either directly during your interview by the police or the Public Prosecutor's Office (by filing a criminal complaint against any potentially responsible person) or by mail.

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  Certain offenses are prosecuted on complaint only. This is not necessarily the case for the offenses involved in such a fire, but elementary caution dictates respecting the deadline for filing a criminal complaint.

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Reserve your civil rights (i.e., compensation). There is no need to quantify them immediately; this can be done later in the proceedings. However, you can already submit expenses (see next point).

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This formality can also be done by your lawyer if you retain one.

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