A fire in your home is one of the most devastating things. Not only can it destroy your belongings and leave your family homeless, but it can also be deadly. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the common fire hazards in your home and take steps to prevent them. Let’s discuss some of the most common fire hazards in the home and what you can do to prevent them.
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Cooking Fires
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Most cooking fires start when food or other cooking materials catch fire. To prevent a cooking fire in your home, always stay in the kitchen while cooking and keep an eye on what you’re cooking. If you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the stove for just a minute.
Heating Fires
Heating fires are another leading cause of home fires and home fire deaths. These fires typically start when heating equipment, like a furnace, is not maintained or used correctly. To prevent a heating fire in your home. Have your heating equipment serviced by a professional every year. Make sure that anything that emits heat, like space heaters, is kept at least three feet away from flammable materials.Contact Shropshire Gas for an expert heating specialist who can keep your home warm and safe.
Electrical Fires
Electrical fires are another type of fire that is common in homes. These fires typically start because of electrical problems, like overloaded outlets or faulty wiring. To prevent an electrical fire in your home, have a professional electrician check your home’s wiring and make sure that you’re not overloading your outlets.
Smoking Fires
Smoking-related fires are yet another leading cause of home fires and home fire deaths. These fires typically start when cigarettes are not properly extinguished, or people fall asleep while smoking. To prevent a smoking-related fire in your home, always extinguish cigarettes in an ashtray and never smoke in bed.
Arson Fires
Arson is another leading cause of residential fires, although it is not as common as other causes on this list. Arson fires are started deliberately and often involve flammable liquids like gasoline. To prevent an arson fire in your home, keep flammable liquids stored safely away from ignition sources like matches or lighters.
Candles
Candles are a common cause of home fires, especially during winter. According to the NFPA, almost half of all candle fires happen when a candle is left unattended. To prevent a candle fire in your home, always blow out candles before you leave the room and keep them away from flammable materials.
Fire hazards are all around us, but being aware of the most common ones can help prevent a fire from starting in your home. For example, always watchful when cooking, keep an eye on any heating equipment, and never overload electrical outlets. Additionally, be sure to extinguish cigarettes properly and store flammable liquids safely away from ignition sources. Taking these precautions can help keep your family safe from harm’s way.
