Eight Potential Causes Of House Fires
One of the riskiest and worst things that may happen to your house is a fire. The majority of house fires are brought on by things that were simply avoidable. You can greatly increase your confidence that your home will avoid fire damage by keeping an eye out for the key potential fire-starters in it. Our repair specialists at 770 Water Damage & Restoration work with the aftereffects of fires every day. The most frequent fire causes they encounter are listed below.
* Heating Devices
Since heating equipment is one of the most frequent sources of fire damage, it is only fitting that it is at the top of this list. You should frequently check your chimney and woodstove to make sure there aren’t any problems that could be dangerous. Another type of heating apparatus that is particularly prone to starting flames is space heaters. They are useful to have in the winter, but if you decide to use one, be sure to keep it at least a few feet away from any combustible materials like bedding, draperies, or walls.
* Electrical apparatus
You are at danger for an electrical fire if your wiring is frayed, there are surge marks on it, or your cords are damaged. You should get your home professionally examined to ensure that everything is safe and up to code if you suspect you could have this issue but are unsure, or even just if it’s an older house.
* Candles
In your home, candles literally have an open flame. You should think about the risks before using them, even though they smell great and add to the ambience of your home. A candle could fall and create a fire with even the slightest disturbance.
* Appliances
Approximately 4% of residential fires are caused by appliances. Make sure it has Underwriters Laboratories approval to reduce the possibility of something malfunctioning and igniting (UL). Since the UL has strict safety requirements, you may be sure the appliance is well-made.
Never connecting appliances to an extension wire or two-slot socket is another approach to maintain them in good working order. When you go on vacation, you should unplug everything as well, just in case.
* Smoking
Here, there is an easy fix. If you smoke, do it outside, and put your used cigarette butts in some water.
* Natural Factors
Although there isn’t much you can do to stop a wildfire or spark from setting your house on fire, you can find solace in the knowledge that only 1.6% of house fires are caused by natural disasters.
* Holiday trees
Christmas tree fires are particularly dangerous since they have a lot of fuel inside that can cause the fire to spread quickly. The majority of these fires are started by damaged lighting or by being too close to a heat source. Don’t be hesitant to put up some Christmas tree lights to get into the holiday spirit, but be sure to use great caution, get new lights or have your current ones inspected, and turn them off whenever no one is around.
* Vents
Remember to clean your filters and vents! Lint, hair, dust, and other combustible residues can build up and clog them, making them more likely to catch fire.
Fortunately, by taking care of these issues, you may avoid most home fires. However, we are aware that mistakes do occur and that sometimes things are simply beyond your control. Never hesitate to call 770 Water Damage & Restoration in these situations for a 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration La Habra response.
