Did you know that in 2022 alone, there were 374,300 residential building fires across the US? These devastating incidents resulted in deaths (2,720), injuries (10,250), and costly property damage ($10.8 billion).
Those numbers are alarming and highlight how seriously everyone should take fire prevention, especially if you’re a homeowner. Even a little safety can go a long way in stopping fire damage and risks to your life. Adequate knowledge and proper steps are necessary for house fire prevention while protecting yourself and your loved ones.
This guide gives you essential tips to bolster fire prevention around the house.
10 House Fire Prevention Tips
Fire safety in homes doesn’t mean investing in expensive equipment or technology. Here are some measures you can follow:
1. Install smoke alarms
Installing smoke alarms is among the easiest, most effective ways to defend your home. These devices provide an early warning, giving you and your family precious time to extinguish the fire before it spirals out of control or to escape.
You could install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas. Remember to test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once yearly so they’re always working and don’t violate fire codes.
2. Keep a fire extinguisher handy
A fire extinguisher is a must-have in every home. Keep at least one on each floor, particularly in the kitchen and near possible fire hazards. Sit down and talk to everyone in the household so they know how to use it.
Like with smoke alarms, regularly check on the extinguishers to see if they’re in good shape and in an easy-to-reach spot.
3. Stay vigilant while cooking
Did you know? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking leads the causes of fires in the US.
That’s why staying alert while cooking is crucial. Never leave food unattended on the stove; be especially cautious when cooking with oil. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire; instead, cover the blaze with a metal lid or use baking soda to smother it.
4. Maintain appliances and cooking equipment
Regular maintenance of kitchen appliances and cooking equipment can prevent fires caused by faulty devices. For one, regularly cleaning your oven and stovetop helps avoid the buildup of grease, which can ignite.
Then, regularly inspect if the appliances function correctly and replace damaged cords or plugs, which can spark and cause fires.
5. Inspect and maintain electrical systems
Faulty wiring and outdated electrical systems are fire hazards. They can overload circuits, create sparks, or overheat when there are loose connections or inadequate safety protections. Have a skilled electrician inspect your home’s electrical systems regularly, especially if you live in an older home.
Look for signs of trouble, such as flickering lights, warm outlets, or frequent blown fuses. These are the areas that you should point out to the electrician when they conduct their sweep.
6. Use electrical appliances safely
Electrical appliances are convenient but can pose a fire hazard if not used properly. Never overload outlets and extension cords, and unplug appliances when not in use. Then, keep electric cords away from sources of heat and out of high-traffic areas where they might suffer damage.
7. Proper use of space heaters
Space heaters cause 1,700 house fires annually during colder months. Always place them on a flat, non-flammable surface, and keep them at least 3 feet away from curtains, furniture, or anything that can burn. Never leave a space heater unattended; turn it off before leaving the room or going to bed.
8. Fireplace and chimney maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital in preventing fires if your home has a fireplace. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned at least once yearly to remove creosote buildup, a highly flammable chemical.
Ideally, you always use a fireplace screen to contain sparks. Lastly, never leave a fire unattended, as a stray ember can quickly cause a blaze.
9. Manage outdoor grilling and fire pits
Outdoor grilling and fire pits are great for entertaining guests but can be hazardous if you don’t manage them properly. Keep grills and fire pits at least 10 feet away from your home or any flammable structures. Never leave them unattended, and always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case an accident happens.
10. Maintain your yard
Keeping your yard tidy isn’t just for looks. Dead leaves, branches, and other debris easily catch fire from grills, pits, and other sources around the neighborhood. If you live in a fire-prone area, protect your space by trimming trees and shrubs around it.
Stay Ahead of the Flames
House fires are a sobering reality that you could face, but the good news is that you can greatly reduce the risk of one devastating your home with the proper safeguards.
From smoke alarms and fire extinguishers to conscious vigilance and proper yard maintenance, these preventive measures are simple yet powerful actions for keeping your household safe.
However, if the unthinkable happens, remember you’re not alone. Utah’s disaster restoration professionals at All Dry are ready to step in and restore your home to its former glory. We not only reverse the damage that fire can do to your property but also put measures in place to make it safer.
Contact us today for more information or to inquire about our services.
