Some recent events in the fire service have brought to light the importance of closing doors as you evacuate a building. In public buildings you may have noticed doors that close automatically when there's a fire alarm. Even at home closing a door may just be the best decision you make. A door is one of the best pieces of firefighting and lifesaving equipment. If you leave a room that is on fire, simply closing the door behind you can make all the difference to successfully fighting the fire.

Closing the door reduces fire growth and spread, limits damage to your home and could possibly save lives. It gives you a little extra time by keeping smoke and heat contained allowing you to exit safely. Also, by closing the door a key element in fire growth, oxygen, is limited keeping the fire from growing rapidly. In fact, it can cut off enough that the fire may only smolder allowing firefighters to arrive and fight a much smaller fire.

It is a good idea to sleep with your bedroom door closed as well. The act of closing the door can provide time for you and your loved ones to escape.

Bottom line: when you and your loved ones are exiting, DO NOT LEAVE DOORS AND WINDOWS OPEN. Close the Door and keep a lid on that fire.

Note: Some information contained in this article comes from the "Close the Door" program from the Tennessee State Fire Marshall.)