House fires can be fearsome, and they materialize more frequently than people might think. More than 300,000 homes across America, according to the National Fire Protection Association, experience fire damage annually. Along with this data, businesses like Paul Davis have supplied fire clean up services for many homes. The possibility of a house fire shouldn’t be ignored, and that’s why it’s important to understand what the most common causes of house fires are. To ensure your preparedness, we’ve compiled a set of the most common causes of house fires.
Being Distracted from Cooking
Making meals in the home is one of the prime culprits to house fires, especially when no one is there to keep an eye on the kitchen. Many fire damage repairs have been necessary because of neglected cooking. If you’re required to exit the kitchen for any reason, make sure another person is there to keep an eye on the cooking.
Devices Using Electricity
Anything that uses electricity in your house can pose as a fire hazard. Review your appliances to see if any of the cords are malfunctioning, since that is a major risk for fire. Constantly make sure your electrical outlets are not being overused.
Candles Left Burning
One of the more great features to keep around the house are candles. Although they make for fashionable decorations, they are also a primary risk for fire. Keep your candles away from likely fire hazards such as books, papers and draperies, and always blow them out when you leave the room.
Cigarettes in Your Room
Cigarettes have been a fire hazard for a long time, considering they can stay lit for a few hours, and if they come into contact with anything flammable, you can have a big issue on your hands. Departing from your house to smoke is the best idea to bypass an accident from happening.
A Home with Damaged Wiring
Homes with faulty wiring create electrical problems which can lead to a house fire. This presents an issue since it’s not in plain sight, but there are a few things you can look out for to recognize any faulty wiring in your home:
- Your lights dim when another appliance is in use
- You have to disconnect something in order for an appliance to work
- Your circuit trips frequently
If this is the case for you, fix the issue and reach out to an electrician or call your landlord.
BBQs & Grills
For most people, a grill is a part of their home for the summer months. Yet, make sure it’s not near your home or any plants and trees. Also, keep it cleaned and maintained regularly, since the buildup that collects in your barbecue can be a fire hazard. Examining your gas bottle routinely is another vital step in securing your safety.
Kids
Kids are naturally curious, and fire can be enticing for them. Hide all matches and lighters in the house to keep your children protected. Take added protections and ensure your kids understand how to clear the area and that they know their address if they need to call 911.
Contents That Are Flammable
Specific liquids should be kept away from any heat source, and you should always read the label to see if they are a risk for fire.
Christmas Trees During December
Every winter, holiday cheer is brought into the home through Christmas trees along with a probable house fire. If you have a live tree, you should cut off a small section from the trunk so the tree has the ability to absorb water. You should also be earnest about watering your tree and keeping it hydrated. Another task you should complete is turning off your Christmas lights when you go to sleep. You could consider acquiring an artificial tree to prevent a fire hazard.
Dryers Not Being Cleaned
Fires generated from dryers are rather common, and that’s why it’s integral to keep them maintained. To prevent your home from needing fire restoration services, always clean out the lint trap before using it again, and inspect the dryer duct consistently because lint can get trapped in there as well.
Avoiding Fire Damage
It’s difficult to remove all possible fire hazards, but understanding the most common causes of house fires can eliminate your risk substantially. If you have experienced any fire damage to your house, don’t hesitate to call an expert that offers fire restoration services, like Paul Davis. We are fire restoration contractors that can have your house brought back to its previous state.
