By TaraPatta at shutterstock
It takes just a few minutes for a single flame to escalate into a widespread fire in your home. A flame is like a living being. It searches for fuel to consume, providing it energy. Unfortunately, the majority of your home is fuel. A fire will lick at the drywall, floorboards, and furniture — everything you hold dear.
However, fire is, for the most part, a preventable disaster. You can take steps to reduce fire hazards in your home to protect your property and family. If all else fails, 24-hour fire damage restoration is available to reverse the damage.
Common Fire Hazards Around the Home
If you take a look around your home, you might notice one or two potentially dangerous fire hazards. For example, there might be a bit too much dust caked on your power strip. Or, your smoke detector is flashing — a fresh set of batteries is needed.
In the Kitchen
Your kitchen is the one room most prone to fires; usually the stovetop is the cause for concern. While you’re cooking in the kitchen, stay aware at all times.
- Keep curtains, towels, and paper towels away from the burners on your stove.
- If your microwave is freestanding, keep the surrounding area clear of clutter and prevent blockage around the vents.
- Keep a working fire extinguisher within easy reach in case of a cooking fire.
- Do not toss water over a grease fire; smother it.
Heating and Electrical Systems
We’ve paired both heating and electrical systems together as they commonly coincide.
- If you are using a space heater, keep it at least three feet from flammable objects.
- Do not plug multiple heating appliances into a single outlet.
- If you have a fireplace, schedule regular cleaning.
- Check your electrical wiring for signs of fraying or damage.
- Do not overload an outlet or power strip.
Appliances
Your home’s appliances usually make life easier, but if the proper precautions are not taken, they can quickly lead to extensive damage.
- Schedule regular inspections and maintenance for your household appliances, especially a dryer.
- Regularly clean the lint screen on your dryer to reduce the risk of a fire.
Fire Safety Tips for Families
With hundreds of thousands of reported house fires each year, we would like to take some time to educate homeowners with proper fire safety tips.
- Plan an escape route and practice it at least twice per year with the whole family.
- If possible, extinguish the fire yourself while calling the fire department.
- Focus rescue efforts on people and pets first. Your safety is more important than possessions.
- If there is a lot of smoke, remember to stop, drop, and crawl for safety.
- Always test doorknobs for signs of fire on the opposite side.
Schedule 24-hour fire & smoke damage restoration at the first sign of trouble to reverse the damage. Call your local Restoration 1 for relief.
