Many people close their bedroom door every night for privacy, to keep the room cool or warm, or simply out of habit. Whatever reason, know that you’re also looking after your safety. The guide below explains how this simple precaution can reduce fire damage should a blaze break out at home.

Understanding Fires

Fire is the result of a chemical reaction between oxygen and a fuel source like gasoline, wood, or flammable brush or paper. Once the flammable item reaches a certain temperature, it decomposes and releases smoke made of hydrogen, carbon, and oxygen. As it consumes more oxygen from the air, its temperature rises, and a flame will appear and spread. 

Closing Your Bedroom Door

When you close your bedroom door, you cut off that particular oxygen supply, which might otherwise fuel a fire. If you make a habit of closing the doors to all your rooms, you limit a blaze’s ability to grow even more. You’re also creating an additional barrier that the fire has to pass before it can reach you, which can be life-saving.

What to Do During a Fire

If a fire starts in your sleep, go to the nearest safety exit. This may be the window in your bedroom. If your best option is the door, test the doorknob. If it’s hot, the fire is on the other side and you should not venture out but call for help instead. If the door is not hot and you can’t see flames, drop and crawl below the smoke. Make sure to close doors behind you to prevent the fire from getting oxygen that could make it even bigger and more dangerous.

If your home has recently caught on fire, Arkansas Restoration Services can help you recover. Based in Russellville, these professionals address a number of issues, including smoke and fire damage. They also perform water damage restoration services, which are often necessary after firefighters put out a blaze. You can explore their full scope of work on their website, or call (479) 967-2018 to speak with a representative.