If homeowners dread one thing, it’s the thought of a house fire. And while fires can be caused by various things – from faulty wiring to a simple cooking mistake – homeowners can easily overlook something or make common mistakes during a house fire that can lead to severe injury or even death.

In this article, we’ll outline these five mistakes and how to avoid them in the event of a house fire. Read this article carefully, and be prepared to act quickly if this disaster strikes your home!

1. Breaking windows

One of the primary reasons for fire fatality is the inhalation of smoke. So, when you are trapped in a house on fire, you tend to break the windows; keep in mind that breaking windows can let air in that is much needed for fire to grow. If you tend to break windows, ensure that you are clear about the next steps or should have an escape route in mind. Breaking windows can make things worse.

2. Opening hot doors

Like breaking windows, opening hot doors can allow the fire to grow. Close all the doors outside your house- even those labeled ‘drains’ or ‘outside.’ Opening these doors will only give oxygen and fuel to a raging inferno.

After a house fire, it’s essential to take the time to evaluate the damage and make sure you’re safe. This includes making sure all hot doors are closed and protected from fire. Do not open any hot doors from the fire, as they could cause injuries. Also, opening doors could cause the fire to spread. Opening doors could let the drafty air can enter the home and create dangerous conditions.

3. Trying to fetch your belongings

It is important to stay put if you have any items in danger from the fire. Do not try and fetch these belongings; instead, wait for firefighters or family members who may be able to help you safely remove them. In serious fires, retrieving possessions can cause injuries as people trip over cords and flames move around quickly.

Also, do not waste your time and energy looking for items that may have been lost in the house fire. If you can’t find them, it’s best to assume they’re destroyed. They may have already burned or melted down, so there is no point in trying to locate them. Instead, focus on getting yourself out of danger and helping rescue crews assess the damage.

4. Staying in your room

This may seem like the safest option, but it’s important to remember that a home fire can quickly become out of control. If you stay in your room without realizing how severe the fire is, you might wait precious time while the situation gets more ugly and it becomes almost impossible for you to escape or help to get to you.

Fire is never a pleasant experience, but it’s even worse when you are trapped inside your home. The best course of action is to stay calm and search for exits. If you’re able to find one, do not hesitate to escape. If you find yourself in this situation, remember to look for ways to create firebreaks so the fire doesn’t spread and you can safely evacuate.

5. Trying to fight a fire alone

Fighting a house fire is never easy, and it’s even harder when you’re alone. If possible, contact the firefighters and let them do their job. Attempting to fight a house fire on your own could result in severe injury or even death.

Cleaning after fire

The sooner you can get started on cleanup, the better. The debris and soot from a house fire can cause severe respiratory problems. If you have time before firefighters arrive, sweep up as much of the mess as possible using a dustpan and brush.

Do not hesitate to call a fire damage restoration company if the fire was severe. Fire damage restoration specialists will have the necessary tools and equipment to ensure that your home is devoid of any hazards and aftermath of the fire, such as chemical residue and debris. Do not turn on the electricity or water to your home until you have confirmation from qualified professionals that it is safe. Doing so could result in a hazardous electrical shock and, even worse, flooding if the pipes were damaged in the fire. Fire damage specialists can also help you sort out the belongings that are beyond repair and need to be thrown out.

After a house fire, it’s important to stay calm and avoid doing any of the following: breaking windows, opening hot doors, fetching belongings, hiding, or fighting the fire alone. These five actions can lead to further injuries and even death. Make sure to follow the advice of emergency responders and fire personnel to ensure your safety and those around you.