In America, thousands of lives are lost each year to house fires. And in Waukesha, WI, the risks are just as great. Speak to your family today about fire safety to keep them and your home safe. You can begin by making everyone aware of the top causes of fires in the home:
1). Dryer Vent Lint Build-Up
Lint buildup in your dryer vents mixed with the heat that is frequently passing through these vents can cause fires quite easily. To avoid this problem, always clean your dryer vents often.
2). Grills With Grease Build-Up
Outdoor grilling is a cause for concern too. Fortunately, you can avoid grilling fires by following two simple safety tips. First, always clean your grill after use. Make sure to remove grease and fat buildup to avoid spontaneous fires that can quickly grow out of control.
Next, make sure that when you do grill, you always stay far away from structures such as your home and garage. Stay far away from overhanging shrubbery and trees too. These close-by structures may come into contact with the smoke or flames and can catch ablaze quickly.
3). Candles
When you light candles in your home, make sure that you always stay close to them. Never burn candles in your bedroom, and never leave candles burning overnight. Furthermore, keep candle flames far away from flammable objects such as curtains, clothing, napkins, furniture, decorations, plants, children, and pets.
4). Flammable Liquids
Liquids like stain, paint, turpentine, and other household cleaners need to be kept in safe storage spaces. When using them, take the necessary safety precautions, and as you clean up, take care care of the rags and paper towels you’ve used. These need to be dried safely and spread out. If you crumple them up into a pile or toss them directly into the waste bin, the soaked cloths could spontaneously combust and cause an overwhelming fire that you may not notice until it’s too late.
5). Cooking Accidents
Even though you’re likely a seasoned cook at home, always take diligent care whenever using the stove, oven, or other electrical cooking devices. It’s important never to leave your cooking unattended, especially when grease is involved. Furthermore, keep towels, curtains, and other flammables far away from heat and open flames.
6). Portable Space Heaters
When using portable space heaters in your home, make sure to maintain at least a 3-foot clearance around the device. Never run a space heater unattended, and never leave a child in charge of watching over a space heater.
Portable heaters often catch fire because they tip over. To avoid this, always keep your portable space heater on a flat and level surface where it will be least likely to fall or touch surrounding objects.
7). Electrical Malfunctions
Various factors can influence the electrical outlets in your home, possibly causing fires that may occur while you are asleep or not at home.
To prevent electrical malfunctions and consequential electrical fires, install AFCI outlets. These outlets will immediately shut off electrical currents when arc-faults are detected, preventing electrical fires from getting started.
As a secondary precaution, take care not to overload electrical outlets with power bars, extension cords, and outlet extenders. Try to keep it to one appliance or device per outlet when you can.
Home fire safety starts with understanding what causes most fires in the first place. By alerting your family members to the seven most common causes of residential fires, you’re doing your best to prepare your home properly.
For additional home fire safety tips and to learn about more ways to protect your home from disaster, including comprehensive home insurance, contact Carrigan Insurance today.
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