What is the Most Common Cause of a Home Fire - Fire Damage Remediation
Home fires are a frightening thing, and they transpire more regularly than people might think. More than 300,000 homes in America, according to the National Fire Protection Association, come across fire damage annually. Along with this data, businesses like Paul Davis have provided fire clean up services for many houses. It's important to know the most common ways a house fire is caused, because any likelihood for fire shouldn't be neglected. For your preparation, we've organized a collection of the most common causes of house fires.
Neglecting Food on the Stove
Cooking is one of the more common causes of house fires, and a fire usually happens when the stove is isn't being watched. A lot of houses have needed fire damage repairs because of food being left on the stove with no one to monitor it. It's important to stay in the kitchen while cooking, or to have someone to monitor it if you retire from the room.
Accessories Using Electricity
Electrical appliances, such as toasters and portable heaters should be checked up on and put in places that aren't risky. If any of your electrical equipment has a bad cord, then they are a fire hazard. Furthermore, what you need to keep in mind is your outlets. Don't overload them.
Neglected Candles
Candles are charming objects to have around the house. While they make for great decorations, they are also an extreme risk for fire. Make sure to blow out your candles before leaving the room, and put them in a location where they won't fall over or ignite other objects around them.
Cigarettes
When it comes to fire hazards, cigarettes are risky because they can drop on the ground and stay lit for a few hours. Departing from your house to smoke is the best way to avoid an accident from happening.
Electrical Issues Damaged Wiring
Any electrical problems in your house, such as damaged wiring, can put your property at risk for fire. Damaged wiring is problematic because you can't always see it, but here are a few things to look out for:
- 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 situation for you, resolve the problem and reach out to an electrician or contact your landlord.
Barbecues & Grills
For most individuals, a grill is a part of their property for the summer. Remember, it's imperative that your barbecue isn't close to anything that can ignite from it. Also, have it cleaned and maintained on a regular basis, since the buildup that occurs in your barbecue can be a fire hazard. Additionally, you should inspect the gas bottle consistently for leaks or other possible problems.
Kids
Fire is alluring for the curiosity of a child, and that's why you need to take every precaution. Keep any matches or lighters out of reach or hidden to avoid an accident from occurring. You can also train them how to handle the situation of a fire and to memorize their address in the event they need to call 911.
Placing Flammable Contents
When you're storing your liquids, always read the label to make sure the contents aren't a fire hazard, otherwise don't store them next to a heat source.
Christmas Tree
Every December, holiday festivity is provided to the home through Christmas trees along with a potential house fire. Cutting a small section from the base will allow your tree to soak up water, and it's necessary to do this before it goes in the tree stand. You should also be vigilant about watering your tree and keeping it hydrated. One more thing you should do is turn off your Christmas lights when you go to sleep. You could consider purchasing an artificial tree to rule out a fire hazard.
Dryers Not Being Cleaned
Fires produced from dryers are very common, and that's why it's vital to keep them maintained. To prevent your house from needing fire remediation services, always clean out the lint trap before using it again, and inspect the dryer duct regularly because lint can get trapped in there as well.
Prevent Fire Damage to Your House
It's impossible to get rid of all possible risks for fire, but knowing the most common causes of house fires can eliminate your risk substantially. If you have experienced any fire damage to your property, don't hesitate to call a professional that provides fire remediation services, like Paul Davis. We are a fire clean up company that can have your property restored back to its previous state.