According to the U.S. Fire
Administration, there were 371,500 residential fires in 2017. Only 1.6% of
those fires were from natural causes, while cooking caused 51.6% of them. We at
Restoration 1 hope that knowing the 5 most common causes of residential fires
can help raise awareness and increase preventative practices in our Fayette
County homes to safeguard from potential fires.
Cooking
Cooking is the cause of half of
all residential fires. Since the
kitchen is where the cooking happens, this is where we need to start to be
proactive with fire safety. First, never leave cooking food unattended. If an
appliance that heats up is on and hot, it should never be left alone. Second,
keep your cooking equipment clean. Build up on stovetops, ovens, and even in
microwaves can become flammable. Third, keep flammable objects away from the
stove and any other possible heat sources. Be sure to use caution whenever you are
cooking in the kitchen, and have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case.
Heating
Heating causes made up 9.1% of
residential fires in 2017. Space heaters can be great for heating a small room,
but when left alone in a room they can be a huge fire risk. Be sure that space
heaters are a safe distance away from any flammable objects (walls, curtains,
bedding, etc), and do not leave them on unattended. Routine inspection and
cleaning of wood stoves and chimneys can help prevent fires by removing any potential
obstructions and build up. Keeping up with routine maintenance on the water
heater will help prevent malfunctions and possible fires.
Carelessness
Unintentional fires caused by
carelessness made up for 7.1% of residential fires. Mistakes happen, and no one
is perfect, but negligence with potential fire hazards is something we all can
and should work on. Leaving burning candles in rooms unattended, putting
heating devices near combustible items, failing to completely put out
cigarettes, being careless in the kitchen, not keeping matches and lighters in
safe places are just some examples of careless acts that can lead to
fires. Keep flammable objects and
material in safe and hard to reach places, and make sure to turn off valves on
gas tanks when not in use. Always treat anything hot or on fire with the utmost
care.
Electrical Malfunction
6.5% of residential fires were
the result of an electrical malfunction. Frayed wires and damaged cords should
be thrown away and replaced immediately. Any exposed wires need to be addressed
before being used. Do not over-plug outlets. When too much current is running
through a single outlet or extension cord, fires can start. Do not plug
multiple appliances into the same electrical socket. If you have multiple cords
that need power in one area (i.e. the TV and entertainment center), you should
use a surge protected to ensure that there is not current overload. If cords
feel hot after being plugged in for extended amounts of time, unplug them and
do not use them again until they cool down.
Open Flames
Open flame sources made up 4.3%
of residential fires. Candles, indoor fireplaces, and outside fires can be very
pleasant and enjoyable, but can also easily get out of hand and lead to fires.
You can prevent residential fires started from open flames by making sure
flames are completely put out when done, keeping candles at least 12 inches
away from anything flammable, and never leaving open flames unattended for any
amount of time.
House fires are devastating and
can even be fatal. If you find yourself dealing with a residential fire, call Restoration 1 of McDonough. We understand fire damage, how it
works, and how to clean it up. Our services in Fayette County and surrounding
areas are proven to provide the best restoration and results in the industry.
We will work quickly and efficiently to mitigate damage and restore your
property expertly and safely. When it comes to fire damage cleanup, do not wait to
call Restoration 1 of McDonough.
