What are the Common Causes of House Fires?

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Common Causes of Home Fires: Prevention Tips and Fire Damage Restoration

Home fires can occur any time of year, but the winter tends to be the peak season, as heating and cooking can create fire hazards that are not present during the summer. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire departments nationwide respond to a home fire every 86 seconds. In 2019, there were 1,291,500 fires, resulting in 3,704 civilian fatalities, 16,600 civilian injuries, and $14.8 billion in property damage.

Here are some of the common causes of how a fire starts in a home:

Cooking Causes

One of the primary causes of home fires is cooking. Unattended cooking equipment is the leading cause of home cooking fires, causing 31% of total home fires and 55% of cooking fire injuries. A simple trip outside or lack of attention while cooking can lead to disastrous results. Homeowners can prevent these types of fires by never leaving cooking food unattended, staying in the kitchen while cooking, and keeping flammable materials away from the range.

Heating Hazards

Another common cause of house fires is heating equipment. Portable heaters can also be a fire hazard, as they can easily be knocked over and ignite nearby objects. Heating equipment causes 14% of home fires and 23% of fire fatalities annually. To prevent fires, homeowners should have their heating systems inspected annually, use space heaters with automatic shut-off switches, and place space heaters at least three feet away from other objects.

Smoking Dangers

Smoking is another primary cause of home fires, causing 5% and 23% of home fire deaths. A lit cigarette that falls onto a flammable surface can ignite anything nearby. To prevent this fire, smokers should smoke outside, properly extinguish cigarette butts, and ensure that all smoking materials are disposed of safely.

Count on SERVPRO of North Bay Shore for Fire Damage Restoration

A house fire can happen to even the most careful homeowner, but preventative measures can reduce the risk. If a fire occurs, SERVPRO of Oakdale is here to help restore and repair fire damage in Suffolk County. Our team of professionals can assist with fire damage clean-up, repair, and restoration services. 

Contact us today for a quick response and expert care for all your restoration needs.