How Fires Start

You may not have realized, but fires are in second place for accidental deaths in the home environment. This guide will provide you with information on how fires start, and how to prevent them in your home.

Most Common Causes

Electricity can be very dangerous, and should not be an underestimated fire risk. Even though there is no flame involved, the risk is still there. The most common electrical fires are from hot plugs, sockets, and blown fuses that can overheat and start a fire. One thing to look out for are exposed wires that could cause a spark.

If you or someone else smokes in your home, keep in mind that cigarette related fires start because the cigarette is not put out completely.

The small flame of a candle can have serious consequences, and most candle related fires are from candles that fall over due to improper holders or placement.

Kitchen Fires

Of all the rooms in your home, the kitchen is the most common place of residential fires as it contains many hazardous utilities. Look out for the common combination of open fire, grease, electricity, and water which can be very hazardous. The most common kitchen fire is from grease, usually caused by fry pans. Some of the less dangerous fires are dry cooking fires and oven fires. They are usually easy to control and they not likely to cause major damage.

Fire in the Bedroom

If you live in a cold climate and have a space heater in your bedroom (or anywhere else for that matter) make sure they are not placed near linen, clothes, curtains, and other flammable items. If you have children, another common bedroom fire can be caused them playing with matches and lighters. This usually occurs in closets, and under beds where there are a lot of items that catch fire easily.

Getting Warm by the Fireplace

It is important to a screen or glass door in front of your fireplace to prevent sparks from flying into the room and causing a fire. Chimney fires should be your main concern if you have a fireplace. Creosote can build up in the chimney over time and can easily ignite. Clean your chimney once a year to prevent this dangerous fire hazard.

Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS, to learn more about Fire Damage and Fire Restoration visit RestorationSOS.com or call 1-877-767-2407

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