Fires can break out in the home in a variety of ways, from unattended candles to extra-hot space heaters. If you’re worried about the risk of fire in your home, don’t panic—you can easily mitigate these common fire hazards by remaining attentive to common risks. Here are a few things you can do to keep your home safe.
Maintain Household Appliances
Common appliances like ovens and clothes dryers pose a serious fire risk if they’re not working properly. If any of your appliances break down frequently or emit a burning smell, call an appliance repair technician to fix any faulty parts.
Watch Out for Space Heaters
During the colder months, space heaters can provide extra heat and comfort to rooms that get drafty. However, space heaters are also a leading fire hazard, especially when they’re left unattended or too close to flammable objects like papers and clothes.
If you choose to use a space heater during the winter, place it on a hard, nonflammable surface with plenty of room around it. Every time you leave the room, turn that heater off and unplug it.
Keep an Eye on Your Cooking
Do you love to cook meals at home? As you whip up delicious dishes in your kitchen, make sure you stay close to the stove while items are cooking. Stovetop fires are a leading cause of fire damage claims, as hot oil and cooking grease are highly flammable. Stay attentive while you’re cooking, and don’t let yourself walk away while your stove is on.
Check Your Smoke Alarms
Are the smoke alarms in your home fully functional? If you haven’t checked them in a while, do so now—and make a note to repeat that check once a month. Change any dead or dying batteries, and consider installing additional alarms near appliances in the kitchen and laundry room.
Your home likely contains several common fire hazards, but don’t let that fact scare you. You also have the power to mitigate the risks by staying alert and maintaining the various appliances and alarms in your home.
