5 Most Common Causes For A House Fire And How To Prevent It

Fire is a frightening and potentially fatal event that can occur in a home. Each fire scenario is unique and requires a customized battle plan. However, there are steps that remain consistent in the fire damage restoration process. However, the most common causes of fire can be avoided by following some basic precautions. 

1. Stoves

The most popular type of domestic fire in the United States is the kitchen fire. An unattended pan can lead to heat strokes. Overheating a pan without supervision can quickly ignite nearby combustible materials. Items such as paper towels, cloths, and oven gloves must be kept away from the stovetop. A lid will cover any pan fires. Close the door to the oven and turn off the power to quickly extinguish any flames. Do not try to put out a fire in the kitchen with water. This will only make it worse.

2. Home Furnaces

Gas or electric furnaces that are not properly installed or malfunctioning can cause fires. They should be inspected by qualified persons at least once a year. Particular attention should be given between inspections to ensure that ventilation does not become blocked and that chimneys are free of debris.

3. Candles

It is essential that you ensure that your candles are completely extinguished prior to leaving a room. Also, make sure that they are placed on a stable, flat surface, out of reach of children and pets.

4. Electrical Appliances & Wiring

Another major fire risk is electrical sockets, switches and cords. Regular inspection of sockets and switches for frayed or loose wires should be done. Incorrectly insulated cords can cause fires. They should not be routed underneath carpets or rugs or where furniture may press on them. Too many appliances can be powered from one socket or extension lead. This is especially true if the wiring in the building has been faulty or outdated. This is evident by the frequent trip of circuit breakers and fuse while appliances are turned on.

-Electrical Dryers

If the air vents are not regularly cleaned, electric clothes dryers can pose a fire hazard. Lint and other debris can quickly catch fire when exposed to high temperatures that are typical for these types of appliances.

-Lighting and Lamp Fittings

Lamps and lighting fixtures are as innocuous looking as they sound. Other than frayed or loose cords or faulty switches, bulbs that have a higher wattage than the recommended for a particular lamp fitting or lamp is a serious fire hazard. Another risk to avoid is leaving paper or other inflammable materials too close to a hot lamp.

-Portable Room Heating

These heaters are also known as space heaters and can cause fire even if they have a safe cord. They may be too close to flammable items like bedding, towels, curtains, furniture, or clothes. portable heaters shouldn’t be used to dry clothes.

5. Cigarettes, Pipes, and Cigars

Although smoking is less common than it once was, it’s still a very common cause of house fires. It is possible to fall asleep while smoking a cigarette or cigar. However, it is important to make sure that the ashtrays are large enough and that all contents are fully extinguished before you empty them. A cigarette end can smolder for some time before it ignites a fire.

Contact 911 Restoration of Iredell County today for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

These are simple steps that will help you avoid the trauma caused by a fire in your house. If the worst happens, expert help will be needed to repair and mitigate the damage from smoke, flame, and soot. You can call 704-519-2333 for professional assistance with fire damage restoration in Iredell County, 24/7/365. Within 45 minutes of receiving an emergency call, our team can reach homes or businesses in Mooresville, Salisbury and Hickory. Once they arrive, technicians can conduct a free visual mold inspection on the property.