Prevent the 7 Most Common Causes of House Fires Learn some of the most common causes of house fires and steps you can take to protect your family and home. 1. Appliances and Electrical Equipment Any machine that generates heat or tends to get hot after long periods of use can pose a potential fire hazard. In this age of technology, we are constantly using computers and other electronics, increasing the risk of fire. Be sure to keep the area surrounding heaters and large appliances free from debris or clutter. Washing machines and clothes dryers are responsible for 15,970 residential fires each year. Regularly clean out the lint trap in your clothes dryer and check that it is properly venting to the outside. Home Fire Prevention Checklist
A s winter cold sets in for many of us, we tend to spend more time indoors and rely on heaters to keep our homes warm. According to the US Fire Administration (USFA), the frequency of heating fires increases from 17% to 27% in winter. On average, heaters cause 52,050 household fires per year. Even if you aren’t in a cold climate, these fire prevention tips are best practices for keeping our homes and families safe. Statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reveal that 490,500 residential fires were reported in the United States in 2020. These fires were responsible for the loss of 2,730 lives, resulted in injuries to 13,000 homeowners and caused $12.1 billion in property damage.
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December 2022
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