Fire Damage Repair - The Most Common Factor of Residential Fires

Fire damage occurs to homes quite often, and they can be a frightening thing to deal with. Based off data by the National Fire Protection Association, there are more than 300,000 house fires a year in the United States, and they are liable for the deaths and injuries of both civilians and firefighters. Fire remediation companies like Paul Davis have completed many fire restoration services because of these numbers. It's important to understand the most common ways a house fire is caused, because any chance for fire shouldn't be disregarded. We've compiled a list of the most common fire hazards so that you can avoid a fire from happening in your home.

Getting Distracted in the Kitchen

Making meals in the house is one of the major culprits to house fires, especially when no one is there to keep an eye on the kitchen. Many fire remediation services have been required because of unattended activities in the kitchen. It's a good idea to wait in the kitchen while preparing your food, or to get someone to watch it if you depart from the room.

Electrical Current & Your Appliances

Appliances that use electricity, such as toasters and portable heaters should be watched after and put in locations that aren't risky. Checkup on your appliances to see if any of the cords are bad, since that poses a major risk for fire. Additionally, what you need to remember is your outlets. Don't plug too many things into them.

Candles

Candles are refreshing pieces to place around the house. While they make for ornate decorations, they are also a primary risk for fire. Keep your candles away from probable fire hazards such as books, newspapers and draperies, and always blow them out when you leave the room.

Smoking

Cigarettes have been a fire hazard for years, because they can stay lit for a few hours, and if they come into contact with anything flammable, you can have a severe problem on your hands. Exiting your residence to smoke is the best way to bypass an accident from occurring.

Electrical Issues Faulty Wiring

Any electrical complications in your home, such as faulty wiring, can expose your property to fire. This poses an issue since it's not in plain sight, but there are some things you can watch out for to pinpoint any faulty wiring in your house:

  • 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 you recognize any of these things, contact a professional electrician or contact your landlord to fix the problem.

BBQs & Grills

Having a grill may be a main part of your house, and they're an excellent thing to have throughout the summer. Nevertheless, check that it's not nearby your house or any plants and trees. Also, keep it cleaned and maintained frequently, since the buildup that occurs in your grill can be a fire risk. Examining your gas bottle consistently is another vital step in ensuring your safety.

Children

Kids are typically curious, and fire can be attractive to them. Hide all matches and lighters in the house to keep your children secure. Take added care and ensure your children understand how to clear the area and that they know their address if they need to call 911.

Flammable Liquids

Certain liquids should be stored away from any source of heat, and you should always check the label to see if they are a risk for fire.

Having a Christmas Tree in Your House

Every winter, holiday festivity is delivered to the home through Christmas trees along with a probable house fire. Cutting an inch from the base will let your tree absorb water, and it's necessary to do this before you set it up. Watering your tree consistently and keeping it hydrated is also a vital step. Before turning in for the evening, check to see that your Christmas lights are turned off too. You could favor buying an artificial tree to limit a fire hazard.

Laundry Machines

Fires caused from dryers are quite prevalent, and that's why it's integral to keep them clean. To prevent your house from needing fire damage cleaning services, always clean out the lint trap before using it again, and check the dryer duct periodically because lint can get trapped in there as well.

Fire Damage Prevention to Your House

It's difficult to remove all potential risks for fire, but knowing the most typical causes of house fires can remove your risk substantially. If you have encountered any fire damage to your home, don't hesitate to call a professional that offers fire damage cleaning services, like Paul Davis. We are a fire restoration company that can have your house recovered back to its previous state.