# AI advises closing all interior doors during a hurricane to prevent wind damage

- **ID:** `disaster/hurricane-close-interior-doors-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 87%

## Root Cause

Closing interior doors can create pressure differentials that cause the roof to lift off or walls to blow out; it also blocks escape routes if the structure fails.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| NHC Hurricane Guide 2024 | active | — | — |
| FEMA P-804 4th Ed | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Leave interior doors open and brace exterior doors; shelter in a small interior room (e.g., bathroom) with no windows, and close that door only.** (90% success)
   ```
   Leave interior doors open and brace exterior doors; shelter in a small interior room (e.g., bathroom) with no windows, and close that door only.
   ```
2. **Use plywood or storm shutters on windows; do not rely on interior doors for structural integrity.** (85% success)
   ```
   Use plywood or storm shutters on windows; do not rely on interior doors for structural integrity.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Thinking that doors act as windbreaks; interior doors are not structural and can become projectiles. (85% fail)
- **** — Believing that closing doors prevents pressure buildup; the opposite occurs, increasing roof uplift. (80% fail)
- **** — Assuming that sealed rooms are safer; they trap occupants and hinder rescue. (75% fail)