The Most Common Reasons for House Fires | SERVPRO® of Sumter

5/18/2023 (Permalink)

Have you experience a fire in your home? Call SERVPRO of Sumter to help get your residence back to normal.

If you are a homeowner, chances are you have thought about what you would do if faced with a house fire at least once. It is a scary situation that can not only completely destroy your home, it can even be a dangerous or deadly event.

The good news is that the majority of house fires can actually be prevented with a little time and attention to detail around your home. We explain some of the most common places and reasons that house fires break out below so you can take steps to reduce your risk today.

The Power of Electronics

We are surrounded by technology in today’s day and age, so it’s no surprise that many house fires are caused by overheated electronics or by a power surge. Try to get into the habit of unplugging your computers and gaming systems when they are not in use.

If you have a room in your home that has a lot of electrical outlets and those outlets are loaded with cords, it’s time to get a surge protector. A power surge can not only damage your electronics beyond repair, it can also cause them to overheat or spark a fire. 

Electrical fires can get really hot, really fast, so it is important to prioritize these steps when attempting to reduce your house fire risk. 

The Risks in Your Kitchen

The majority of house fires begin in the kitchen. Stoves, ovens, and any other appliance that uses heat or flame to function has the potential to start a fire. You should always be close to the kitchen when you are cooking. Flammable materials can easily get bumped into the flames or a grease fire can erupt at any moment. If you are in another room while your pot is on the stove, your entire kitchen could be in flames in the few minutes that you stepped away. 

We extend this same word of caution to your outdoor grills or bonfires. If you consider yourself the grill master, stay outside and in the line of sight of your grill. Maintain the heat and flames, and ensure that the coals are completely out and cool or your propane tanks are shut and your grill is off. 

Keep It Clean

Did you know that the clutter in your home can actually be a danger to you in the event of a house fire? Unnecessary piles of things or possessions stacked near windows or doors can become more fuel to a fire, making it grow faster in a shorter amount of time. 

The clutter is also a tripping hazard. All paths throughout your home should be easy to access and each exit should be clear and ready to use if necessary. 

Once your home is picked up and organized, it’s time to clean out your air filters and lint traps. A blocked lint trap in your dryer is a huge fire hazard as well as a dirty furnace filter. Even though some of these tasks seem insignificant, they very well might just help you avoid a house fire.

Experiencing a house fire can be overwhelming. Call SERVPRO of Sumter for a full restoration.