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How Common Are House Fires and How Can You Prevent Them? | SERVPRO of Westfield

8/2/2024 (Permalink)

dramatic shot of firemen holding hose spraying water on to burning hot flames SERVPRO of Westfield is ready to help you have a fire-safe summer season with these helpful tips!

House fires are more common than most people realize. Understanding their prevalence and the steps you can take to prevent them can make all the difference in keeping your home and loved ones safe. At SERVPRO of Westfield, we’re committed to helping you understand fire safety and preparedness, especially during peak fire seasons.

The Reality of House Fires

Did you know that house fires can occur anytime, but certain times of the year see higher incidences? In Westfield, house fires are most frequent during the colder months of the year, particularly from December to February. This period sees an increase in heating-related fires, often due to space heaters, fireplaces, and holiday cooking.

Common Causes of House Fires

Understanding the common causes of house fires is the first step in prevention. Some of the leading causes include:

  1. Cooking: Unattended cooking is the number one cause of house fires. Grease fires can ignite quickly and spread even faster.
  2. Heating Equipment: Space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves are essential during winter but can be hazardous if not used properly.
  3. Electrical Malfunctions: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and outdated electrical systems can spark fires.
  4. Smoking: While we won’t dive into details, it’s important to note that improper disposal of smoking materials can lead to fires.
  5. Candles: Unattended candles can easily tip over or catch nearby items on fire.
Tips to Prevent House Fires

Preventing house fires involves a combination of awareness and proactive measures. Here are some tips to help you keep your home safe:

  • Stay in the Kitchen: Never leave cooking food unattended. If you need to step away, turn off the stove.
  • Use Heating Equipment Safely: Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heating equipment. Turn off space heaters when leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Check Electrical Systems: Regularly inspect your home’s electrical system. Look for frayed wires, and avoid overloading outlets.
  • Practice Candle Safety: Use sturdy candle holders and keep candles away from flammable items. Never leave a burning candle unattended.
  • Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
Stay Prepared with SERVPRO®

Understanding how common house fires are and how to prevent them is crucial for every homeowner. At SERVPRO of Westfield, we’re Here to Help® you with all your fire safety and restoration needs. Stay safe and take proactive steps to protect your home today!

Visit our website for more tips and information on how we can assist you in case of a fire emergency.

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