While fires can be devastating, the good news is that they are often preventable. Learning about the most common causes of fire damage can help you take the necessary steps to protect your home and loved ones.
Causes of Fire Damage: Cooking Fires
One of the most common causes of residential fires is cooking-related accidents. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA),there are an average of over 360,000 home structure fires each year in the United States, with nearly half of those being caused by cooking-related accidents. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent a cooking-related fire in your home
- Never leave food unattended while it is cooking
- Keep your cooking area clean and free from clutter
- Turn your pot handles inward so they can’t be accidentally knocked over while cooking
- Have a working smoke alarm in your kitchen
- Keep a pan lid handy so you can smother a small grease fire
- If a grease fire starts, turn off the stove and do not try to move the pan. Leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1
Causes of Fire Damage: Electrical Fires
Another leading cause of residential fires is electrical problems. Poor wiring, overloaded outlets, frayed cords, and faulty light fixtures are just some of the issues that can lead to an electrical fire. Here are some tips for preventing electrical fires:
- Have your home’s wiring checked by a licensed electrician every three to five years
- Never overload outlets or extension cords
- Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage for light fixtures.
- Unplug appliances when they’re not in use
- Don’t leave candles unattended
Following these simple tips can help you prevent fire damage in your home. But even if you do everything right, accidents happen. If your home has been damaged by fire, our team at 24/7 Restoration is here to help. We offer emergency services and will work quickly to assess the damage and begin restoration efforts so you can get back to normal as soon as possible. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a free consultation.
