How safe is your home from fire hazards? Some people assume their homes are fireproof but, truthfully, they’re anything but. Certain situations around the home can increase the risk of fire. Do you know which ones? Here’s a list of the most common fire hazards people ignore. Look for these and other fire danger signs in your home to ensure the worst never happens.
Kitchen Dangers
Your kitchen can be a treasure trove of opportunities for fire danger, so keep it clean and free from grease. When you are cooking or baking with the stove, don’t leave the room—not even for a few minutes. Burners and exposed pots and pans that contain grease and oil can start fires like nobody’s business. Check appliances for loose or frayed cords and potential malfunctions, as these factors can increase the possibility of fire-starting sparks. Monitor children when they cook and explain how to use the stove and other appliances safely. Finally, mind your sleeves, towels, and other loose bits of cloth and clothing. They can catch fire quite often.
Smoking
If you don’t smoke, good. Don’t start. You’ll save money and your health. If you do smoke, quit; the health and fire risks make it a bad habit in more ways than one. A huge percentage of home fires—not to mention forest and other types of fire—were started by cigarettes. If you must smoke, smoke outside, and be sure to stub out and even douse the butt with water. Discarded and abandoned cigarettes can ignite garbage, upholstery, sheets, clothing, and other fabrics and flammable materials around the home. Smoking in bed continues to be a leading cause of house fires and deaths as well. Get rid of your lit cigarettes responsibly, then consider quitting and never risking another fire.
Space Heaters
On a cold autumn or winter day, the extra heat offered by a space heater gives you a snuggly and cozy experience. However, it also increases your risk of a fire by a large factor if left unattended or unmonitored. Make sure you’re using the proper extension cord. Thinner, higher gauge electric cords can grow hot and melt, exposing the wire and risking a fire (keep this in mind for all appliances). Space heaters themselves need to be kept three feet away from fabrics, wood, and other burnable things to avoid overheating and setting them ablaze. Don’t use a space heater as you sleep. Bundle up and add extra blankets instead!
Fireplaces
In a list of the most common fire hazards people ignore, we can’t overlook two direct sources of flame: candles and fireplaces. Keep your fireplace clean and clear of ash, and have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once a year. Get a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from getting out and landing on nearby rugs. And absolutely, positively never leave it unattended.
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