House fire: what to do, how to prevent it, and how to recover

House fires happen fast. One moment a room is normal, the next it's smoke and panic. Knowing clear steps can save lives and cut damage. Read this page for simple, practical advice you can use right now.

Immediate actions

If a fire starts: get everyone out first. Don't try to save belongings. Feel doors with the back of your hand before opening; if hot, use another exit. Stay low to avoid smoke, cover your mouth with a cloth, and close doors behind you to slow the spread. Call emergency services as soon as you are safe. If you cannot escape, go to a window, signal for help, and wait for rescuers.

If the fire is small and you have training, a fire extinguisher might help. Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side. Never fight a growing blaze. If the extinguisher fails or heat or smoke increases, leave immediately.

After the fire: do not re-enter until authorities say it's safe. Take photos of damage from outside for insurance. Contact your insurance company and get a claim number. Keep a list of damaged items and any receipts you can find. If your home is unsafe, arrange temporary housing with family, friends, or local shelters. Keep receipts for expenses related to lodging and meals—these often help with insurance claims.

Prevention and recovery

Preventing house fires is mostly about simple habits. Install smoke alarms on every level and test them monthly. Replace batteries yearly or when alarms chirp. Have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor and know how to use it. Create and practice a two-minute escape plan so everyone knows two ways out of each room.

Watch common risks found in many homes. Avoid overloading power strips and extension cords. Replace frayed wires and don't run cords under rugs. Be careful with open flames—candles, paraffin stoves, and gas burners. Keep flammable liquids away from heat and store them in proper containers. If you use paraffin or wood for cooking or heating, ventilate well and clean chimneys and stoves regularly.

Teach kids what fire looks and sounds like, and keep matches and lighters out of reach. Don't leave cooking unattended, especially when using oil. Smoke and electricity faults often start fires in kitchens and living rooms.

Aftercare matters. Smoke causes health risks; see a doctor if you inhaled smoke. Salvage wet documents and photos by drying them slowly and photographing items for records. Get a professional to inspect wiring and structure before moving back in.

Know local emergency numbers and community resources. In areas with power outages or informal wiring, community fire awareness and safe-cooking programs can cut risks a lot. A little planning protects lives and rebuilds homes faster.

Talk to neighbours about helping during emergencies. Keep digital copies of documents safe. Join local safety groups for training and shared plans. Practice escape drills weekly with family.