BOSTON -- Wednesday's explosion in Danvers may be an overwhelming situation for many people who may not even know the extent of the damage to their property because they've been evacuated.

NewsCenter 5's Susan Wornick reported that when residents do return home, the first thing they should do is assess the damage by walking around inside and outside the property and making a list of the damage.

Take pictures of any damage to the home -- even if you're not sure something will be covered. Get a record of it in case there are questions later.

Call your insurance agent. With this being the day before Thanksgiving, you may not get an immediate callback. But don't worry -- there's no time limit for reporting damage.

If you are forced to find temporary housing, keep records of everything -- not just the obvious, such as expenses on a hotel or motel room. Keep the receipts if you have to buy clothing, food and even a toothbrush. All of it may be covered by your insurance company.

The state will also have monies available for repairs and temporary housing.

Undoubtedly, there will be lawsuits filed against this company where the blast happened -- perhaps by the insurance companies that have to pay claims. But for now, try to take some comfort in the fact that this was not a natural disaster and it was not weather related, so your homeowner's policy should kick in.