Most Common Causes of Fire in the House

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

A fire in the house can start quickly and spread fast. From the misuse of an appliance to smoking in your bedroom, fires are living, breathing entities that can destroy your life in an instant. In fact, house fires are the leading cause of all fire deaths in the United States. 

Here are five of the most common causes of house fires and some fire prevention tips. 

How Do Fires Start? 

1. Cooking appliances. Pots, pans, and burning food can easily overheat and catch fire you’re not paying attention. Stay in the room when cooking or ask someone to watch your food while you‘re away from the kitchen. 

2. Candles. Many of us love a nice-smelling candle. If left unattended, it could cause your house to go up in flames. Keep them away from items like books, napkins, and tissue boxes. And of course, always blow them out before leaving a room. 

3. Heating. Portable heaters are used a lot during the winter months. But heating equipment is the second-leading cause of U.S. home fires and the third-leading cause of home fire deaths. Keep portable heaters at least 3 feet away from furniture, laundry, curtains, clothes and anything else that may be a hazard. If you have a furnace, make sure it’s inspected once a year. 

4. Electrical equipment. Microwaves, toasters, and skillets should always be double-checked before using. Overloading an adapter plug can also cause a fire in the house from overuse of electricity. Don’t plug too much in at once. 

5. Smoking in bedrooms. Bedrooms should be considered off limits from smoking. Mattresses and bedding can catch on fire easily, even when you’re awake. Just imagine if you fall asleep with a lit cigarette.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today – (732) 290-3170