Hidden Fire Hazards

Home Safety

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By guytinzimarketing

You may be overlooking danger

Fire Hazards can be found almost anywhere.  Did you know over 350,000 home fires occur every year!  That’s a whole lot of fires.  Here are some simple steps you can take to help avoid a household fire.

1. Look for Bad Wiring

It’s easy to forget the large amount of wiring running through our homes, simply because we never see any of it. The U.S Fire Administration stated electrical malfunctions cause over 20,000 fires and amount to more than a billion Dollars worth of damage every year. One simple way to prevent this is to check if all the wiring in your has been set up properly and to look for any broken or damaged cables. If you live in an older apartment or house, you should consider having a professional electrician inspect your house’s electrical system.  One more thing to check is your electrical appliances and devices.  Ensure that no cables are worn out or exposed.

2. Practice Kitchen Safety

The kitchen is the heart of the house according to many., but according to the U.S Fire Administration, it’s the most dangerous room in a house.  Over 40% of household fires start in the kitchen according to the U.S. Fire Administration.  You should never leave the kitchen unattended if the stove oven is on, and always keep an eye on food that is being cooked to ensure no accidents occur.  Ensure no cloth or flammable materials are near any heat source.  This also means keeping oven mitts, towels, wooden utensils, or food packaging away from heat sources since they can easily catch on fire with minimal exposure.

3. Perform Basic Dryer Maintenance

A common mistake many make is to leave lint accumulating in a homes dryer.  Not only can this break your dryer, but it can also catch on fire if exposed to high heat.  Avoid this kind of household fire with simple maintenance.  Consider cleaning out your dryer regularly, and remove lint as it accumulates.

4. Watch Out For Electric Heaters

Electric heaters are commonly used throughout winter or for the elderly to feel warm and cozy.  But did you know electric heaters cause over 1,000 fires every year!  It’s recommended to never use a heater while sleeping, and to make sure you are following all of the provided safety warnings indicated in the owners manual. There are several warnings on electrical heaters that should never be overlooked, or taken lightly.

5. Replace Your Light Bulbs As Needed

Fluorescent lightbulbs we have all grown to love can actually combust when they’re worn out.  The energy-efficient light bulbs commonly used in most homes can potentially cause a household fire.  To prevent this, make sure your light bulbs are in good condition and replace them as indicated by the manufacturer.

If you practice the above then you could significantly reduce the chances of a household fire occurring in your home.  Feel free to share this with loved ones, friends, and with co-workers.  Spread awareness and help others reduce their chances of experiencing a household fire.

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