The UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute , an American fire safety research organization, conducted several full-scale tests. Their findings:
- In a room with a closed door , the temperature remains lower, the air more breathable, and visibility is maintained longer.
- Conversely, in a room with an open door , the heat becomes unbearable and smoke invades the premises in less than 3 minutes.
Houses more flammable than before
Another aggravating factor: the materials of our modern interiors.
Solid wood has given way to furniture made of synthetic foams, plastics and textiles , which burn very quickly and produce more toxic fumes.
The result: a house fire can get out of control in less than 5 minutes. In this situation, closing the door becomes a survival reflex.
How can we integrate this reflex simply?
Here are some concrete actions to adopt:
- Close your bedroom door before going to sleep , as well as those of other rooms if possible.
- Install smoke detectors in the hallway, near bedrooms and on the ceiling of sensitive areas (kitchen, living room).
- Keep a charged phone near your bed , accessible without delay.
- Explain this reflex to children , using simple and reassuring words. They will understand that it is a protection, not a punishment.
Closing a door opens a chance of survival
Closing your bedroom door at night is like fastening your seatbelt in a car : it only takes a second, but can make all the difference in the event of an accident.
In a world where home security is sometimes underestimated, this small everyday gesture can truly save lives.
So tonight, before you turn out the light… think about it. A closed door is one more barrier between you and danger.
