Did you know that nearly one-third of fires occur in residential properties? Heating, cooking, and lighting appliances are all common causes. Cooking, for example, was the leading cause of home fires between 2013 and 2017.
Unfortunately, no building is immune to fire damage. The risk is even higher for wooden houses. Outdated electrical wiring and damaged appliances can further increase the odds of having a house fire.
As a homeowner, it’s crucial to know how to prevent fires and what to do in case of an emergency. Simple things, like having your heating system checked regularly and switching to LED bulbs, can go a long way toward preventing a fire hazard.
Not sure where to start? Below are five tips on how to keep your home safe from fire and smoke damage. Let’s dive in!
1. Change Your Smoking Habits
Cigarette smoking does a lot more than just damage your lungs and cardiovascular system. It’s also a leading cause of house fires, warns the National Fire Protection Association.
If you can’t quit this habit, try to smoke outside and put your cigarettes in an ashtray or bucket with sand. Refrain from smoking in bed or around medical oxygen and other flammable gases.
2. Switch to Battery-Powered Candles
While it’s true that candles can help create a cozy ambiance, they’re also a major fire hazard. These items were responsible for over 7,600 house structure fires between 2014 and 2018.
Flameless candles are a much safer option. Depending on your preferences, you may opt for battery- or solar-powered candles. They look just like the real thing and pose little risk to your home.
3. Install Smoke Alarms
One of the best ways to prevent a fire is to install smoke alarms in every room. Ideally, they should be interconnected. This way, you will hear the alarm from anywhere in your home.
If something goes wrong, call the fire department immediately. Next, reach out to a company like Cleanup and Total Restoration to help you mitigate the damage and restore your property.
4. Prioritize Electrical Safety
Faulty electrical equipment caused nearly 50,000 home fires and 440 deaths per year between 2012 and 2016. Outdated or malfunctioning lighting appliances, cooking equipment, and heating systems are all potential fire hazards.
Stay on the safe side and call a local electrician from Ocean Grove to inspect the wiring system at least once every five years. Check your home for damaged or worn cords and wires every few weeks.
Have your cooling and heating system serviced annually. Use space heaters responsibly and only if necessary. Keep them at least 36 inches away from furniture and other materials that can easily catch fire.
5. Know How to Prevent Fires when Cooking
Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires, causing thousands of deaths each year. To stay safe, keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop and stay in the kitchen when cooking your food.
If you’re planning to use a BBQ grill, place it away from fences, trees, and deck railings. Set up a kid-free zone around the BBQ grill and stove. Keep a fire extinguisher around so that you can act quickly in case of fire.
Keep Your Home Safe from Fire Hazards
Whether you’re a tenant or homeowner, it’s your responsibility to know how to prevent fires. Replace any worn cords and wires, avoid overloading electrical circuits, and turn off the stove when leaving the kitchen.
Accidents happen when you least expect it. Being prepared is the best way to protect your home. Make sure you browse the rest of our blog for more tips on how to keep your property in top condition and create the life you want!