What to do in case of a house fire

12/11/2024 (Permalink)

With professional restoration and recovery, your home can be restored to pre-fire conditions faster than you think.

A house fire can be a terrifying experience, but knowing what to do in case of an emergency can make all the difference. At SERVPRO® of Arnold/North Jefferson County, we understand how devastating a fire can be, and we are here to provide expert insights on the critical steps you should take if your home catches fire.

1. Evacuate Immediately

The first and most important thing to do when a fire breaks out is to evacuate the premises. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), house fires spread quickly, and you may have as little as two minutes to safely escape after the smoke alarm sounds. It’s essential to have a fire escape plan in place, practice it regularly with your family, and ensure that everyone knows at least two ways out of every room.

2. Call 911

Once you’re safely outside, call 911 immediately. Never attempt to re-enter the house to retrieve belongings, as this can put your life in danger. Firefighters have the equipment and training to handle the situation safely and effectively, so leave it to the professionals.

3. Use a Fire Extinguisher if Safe

If the fire is small and you have easy access to a fire extinguisher, you may attempt to put it out yourself. However, you should only do so if the fire is contained, the room isn’t filled with smoke, and you have a clear exit path. Remember the PASS method when using an extinguisher: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep from side to side.

4. Stop, Drop, and Roll

If your clothes catch fire, it’s important to know the “Stop, Drop, and Roll” technique. Stop where you are, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll back and forth until the flames are extinguished. This can prevent further burns and injuries.

5. Call Your Insurance Company

After the fire is under control and you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, the next step is to contact your insurance company. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim and determining what damages will be covered. SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County is available to assist with fire damage restoration and can work directly with your insurance provider to help you recover as quickly as possible.

House fires are life-threatening emergencies, but having a plan in place and knowing what to do can save lives. Remember to evacuate immediately, call 911, and never re-enter a burning building. If you need assistance after a fire, contact SERVPRO of Arnold/North Jefferson County for expert fire damage restoration services. We're here to help you get your life back to normal.