Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Elrod, AL

After a house fire, you should not reenter your home unless the fire crew has told you it’s safe to do so. In the longer term, you should not attempt to make repairs to the house on your own. Professional crews are trained to clean up after a fire (including smoke and soot damage), dry out any water damage from the firefighter crews, and make the necessary structural, plumbing, and electrical repairs—and this is all likely covered by insurance.

Start by checking the top or side edge of the door. Look for a certification label or metal tag stamped with details like the fire rating and information on the manufacturer. Even if it’s painted over, the tag should still be visible. Next, look along the edges for slim intumescent strips. They’re designed to swell up and seal gaps when exposed to heat. Finally, check if the door closes itself. Most fire doors have a self-closing mechanism, like an overhead closer or spring hinges. If none of these are obvious, contact a fire safety professional to help verify your door. 

When a carbon monoxide alarm goes off, you should always take it seriously. Infrequent and occasional chirps often point to a low battery, a faulty device, or dust buildup (this usually affects smoke detectors and not standalone CO detectors). A continuous alarm signals an emergency, and you should immediately evacuate and call 911. When it comes to carbon monoxide in your home, it’s better safe than sorry.

You can fireproof an existing door to some extent, but it's better to remove the old door and replace it with a fire-rated model. Anything dealing with extreme heat needs rigorous testing and a door you DIY fireproof will not undergo the same safety measures as a premade one. Consider a door with a rating of at least 30 minutes or more in residential areas.