How do House Fires Usually Start

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Kitchen Fire Destroys Home

There are 350,000 annual house fires and they happen for various reasons.

1) Faulty Electrical Wiring

2) Overheated Appliances

3) Unattended Fireplace and Candles

KITCHEN:

The kitchen is where half of all residential fires start due to appliances that use heat or gas and operate  with electricity. Appliances that are 15 years or older are the most prone to fire damage. 

These appliances are usually associated with kitchen fires.

1) Dishwashers- Heating elements can overheat especially in older models.

2) Dryers- Keep vents clean by removing lint after every use.

3) Microwaves- DO NOT heat foods or materials that are flammable such as aluminum foil and Styrofoam

4) Toasters- The electrical elements inside a toaster can become faulty over time and cause a fire.

Bedrooms have several potential fire hazards such as bedding, mattresses and curtains. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom

Fireplaces and Chimneys:

Keep chimneys and fireplaces cleaned and have them inspected at least once a year. Keep rugs and other fabrics away and always keep a spark screen in front of the fireplace.

Living Rooms usually contain many flammable items such as electronics, curtains and furniture. Candles are the leading fire hazard in living rooms.