Top 3 Causes of Home Fires

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Cooking is the number one cause of home fires and injuries

Here Are The Top Three Causes Of Home Fires

No one expects to experience a home fire during their lifetime. Unfortunately, home fires are more common than most people think. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2011 and 2015 there were about 358,500 residential fires in the United States each year. One of the best things you can do to prevent a fire is knowing what causes them. 

1. Cooking
Did you know that cooking is the number one cause of home fires and injuries? Most of these fires can be prevented by cooking responsibly:

• Stay in the kitchen when you’re cooking. If you need to leave for longer than a few minutes, turn the stove off.
• Do not cook if you’re drowsy or intoxicated.
• Check food regularly when simmering or baking.
• Use a timer on the stove or your phone to remind you when food is done.
• Keep flammable materials away from the stove, including oven mitts, wooden utensils, and kitchen towels.
  

If you have a small grease fire, smother the flames by putting a pot lid over the pan and turn off the burner. If the fire is in the oven, turn off the oven and don’t open the door. If you have any doubts about handling a small home fire, get out of the house and call 911.

2. Heating
Fire causes also include heating equipment. During the winter months, many people use fireplaces and portable heaters to stay warm. Unfortunately, these heating elements can be hazardous if they aren’t properly used and maintained. Always use the correct type of fuel for your heater and keep items, children, and pets at least three feet away.

3. Electrical
From lights to computers, electricity definitely makes our lives easier. Unfortunately, the third cause of fire in the home is electrical. To avoid the possibility of an electrical fire, have all electrical work done by a licensed professional. If you have any problems with circuit breakers tripping or discolored wall outlets, contact an electrician.
If you do experience the unfortunate event of a home fire, contact a fire restoration company. Their trained restoration specialists have the tools and skills to assist you with fire cleaning in your Crystal Lakes, TX, home.