Common Causes of House Fires

2/22/2017 (Permalink)

     During the winter holidays we tend to be more vigilant about fire safety but homeowners must be aware of obstacles to fire safety all year and particularly in the cold weather months.  In the winter months, people spend more time indoors and more time inside increases the risk of house fires.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) more than 360,000 home structure fires each year which is equivalent to $6-8 billion dollars in damage. Those figures are astounding and you don’t want to be a part of those statistics when these tragedies are preventable.  With foresight and good judgement, homeowners can minimize these risks. Take a look at these common fire hazards in your home defined by the National Fire Protection Association and ask yourself, guilty or not guilty?

1. Candles: Do you light candles and walk away?

While the glow and aroma creates the perfect ambience, candles are best enjoyed outside or used with precaution.  Never leave a candle unattended or less than 12 feet from an object.  Better yet a battery operated candle is extremely safe, never burns out and gives off that soft glow.

2. Smoking: Do you allow smoking in the house?

Another reason why smoking is not such a great idea, it is the second leading cause of house fires.  The good news, smoking is on a downward trend and with the help of recent regulations of nonflammable household items such as couches, mattress, pajamas, that has also decreased house fires caused by cigarettes.  Though ironically the older you are the likelihood you will experience a house fire related to cigarettes increase.  Individuals killed in a house fire were 65 and older.   Try smoking outside instead.

3. Electrical & Lighting: Are you confident the electricity in your house is safe?

There are numerous causes for electrical fires; an overloaded circuit and extension cords, an overheated light bulb, space heaters, faulty wiring and appliances.  To minimize risk, don’t overload outlets, make sure you use inside cords for inside and heavy duty/outside cords for outdoors.  Never leave Christmas lights or halogen lights overnight or on when not at home and consider hiring an electrician to make sure wiring is in place.

4. Dryers & Washing Machines: Have you checked the lint tray in the dryer lately?

Clothes dryer and washing machine fires are more common than one might realize.  The most common cause for dryers are lint trays and cable insulation for washing machines.  Make sure you clean the lent screen before and after every use.  Double check lines for gas and propane dryers.  Vent the dryer to the outside and ensure nothing is blocking the vent.  Clean the vent pipe on a regular basis and keep area around the dryer free of combustible materials.

5. Lightning: Do you know the inside dangers of lightning?

Fires caused by lightning are most likely to occur in June, July and August in the late afternoon.  Lightning can also be the cause of wildfires.  Stay away from doors and windows during an electrical form.  Do not use electrical equipment during storms.  Avoid using faucets and baths during a thunderstorm.

6. Children playing with fire: Do you keep fire hazards out of reach ?

Children the age of six and under are most likely to start a fire using matches or a lighter.  Make sure to keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children, teach them fire safety at a young age and make sure children are always supervised.

7. Christmas Trees: Do you know the dangers associated with decorations?

Christmas tree fires cause an average of $18.3 million in property damage each year.  Keep live Christmas trees well watered and dispose them before they become too brittle and dry.  Turn Christmas tree lights off before leaving the house or going to bed. Make sure they are a safe distance from any heat source.

8. Cooking: Do you make a habit to check the stove while cooking and before leaving the house?

Another leading cause of house fires is cooking and easy to get distracted when something is simmering on the stove.  Always be vigilant when cooking and never leave items on a stove unattended.  Never put a grease fire out with water, instead place a lid on the pan to smother the fire.  If fire occurs in the oven, keep oven door shut until fire extinguishes itself.  Keep flammable items away from oven and always have a fire extinguisher in kitchen.