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Fire accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injuries in homes. Data from the U.S. Fire Administration shows an estimated 1,900 residential fires occurred in the U.S. between 2018 and 2020, resulting in 2,745 deaths, 625 injuries, and $230 million in property loss.
The good news is that most home fires can be prevented by following basic fire safety measures. Let’s uncover the major fire causes in residential properties and home fire safety tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What are the Major Causes of Home Fires?
Most residential fires can be prevented by carefully observing home fire safety tips. The most common causes of home fires include:
- Cooking accidents: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 44% of reported home fires are due to cooking accidents.
- Heating equipment: Portable space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves are common sources of house fires, especially in winter.
- Electrical mishaps: This includes frayed cords, overloaded outlets, and faulty electrical appliances.
- Smoking: Careless smoking, like falling asleep with a lit cigarette or cigar.
- Candles: The NFPA reports that candles caused 4% of reported home fires in 2022.
In the next section, we’ll talk about home fire safety tips that you can follow to prevent these mishaps.
10 Fire Safety Tips at Home
Don’t wait for a fire to happen before taking action. Protect your home and family by following these home safety fire prevention tips:
1. Install Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are your first line of defense against home fires. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside sleeping areas.
As a precaution, test your smoke alarms every month to ensure they’re working correctly, and replace the batteries at least once a year or when the alarm signals a low battery.
Finally, replace smoke alarms that are over ten years old as they become less responsive and may not detect a fire in time.
2. Have an Escape Plan
A well-planned escape route can save your life in a fire. Practice getting low and crawling to the nearest exit during a fire drill with your family. Make sure everyone knows two ways to escape from each room and designate a safe meeting place outside.
Conduct a fire drill at least twice a year to ensure everyone remembers the escape route and to make necessary adjustments if there are changes in your home’s layout.
3. Keep a Fire Extinguisher
A portable fire extinguisher can put out small fires before they get out of control. Place one on every level of your home and ensure everyone knows how to use it properly. Local fire departments often provide basic fire extinguisher training, so take advantage of the opportunity to learn how to use this life-saving tool.
4. Practice Safety in the Kitchen
Avoid leaving food unattended while cooking, and ensure that flammable items like dish towels and oven mitts are kept away from stoves. Turn pot handles towards the back of the stove to prevent accidental spills when reaching for items.
If a pan catches fire, cover it with a sheet or lid to smother the flames.
5. Maintain Heating Equipment
Have your heating system and chimneys inspected and cleaned by professionals at least once a year. Space heaters should be kept at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as furniture, curtains, and bedding. Always turn off heaters before leaving the room or going to bed.
6. Use Electrical Outlets Properly
Most old homes have outdated wiring systems that can pose a fire hazard. If you live in an older home, hire a licensed electrician to inspect and update your electrical system. Refrain from overloading outlets with too many electronics, and never use frayed cords or damaged appliances.
7. Safely Store Flammable Materials
Household chemicals, gasoline, and propane tanks should be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Keep them out of reach of children and pets, and inform your family about the dangers of these materials and proper handling.
8. Practice Safe Smoking Habits
If you smoke, it’s advisable to do it outside and use deep, sturdy ashtrays. Always make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before disposing of them, and never smoke in bed or when feeling drowsy.
9. Be Careful with Candles
Candles should never be left unattended or placed near flammable materials. Use sturdy candle holders and keep them at least one foot away from anything that can burn. When leaving the room, extinguish the candles entirely.
10. Keep Your Home Neat and Tidy
Cluttered homes are more susceptible to fires as they provide fuel for flames to spread quickly. Keep hallways and exits clear of clutter and debris to ensure a safe escape route in case of a fire.
Work With Seasoned Fire Damage Experts From R1
In case of a home fire incident, contact experienced fire damage restoration experts to help restore your property and belongings. At Restoration 1 of North Georgia, we have the tools and expertise to handle all types of fire damage and restore your home to its original condition.
Our certified technicians are available 24/7 and respond quickly to minimize the damage caused by fire, smoke, and soot. Contact us at (425) 470-4495 for immediate assistance.
