There are over 1 million house fires each year in the United States, and over 50,000 of these are attributed to electrical fires that take homeowners by surprise. Burning food or grease on the stove, lit candles, and other common causes of fire are well known, but it’s these silent causes like electrical fires that really take homeowners by surprise. These fires can be deadly, and the average homeowner simply doesn’t realize how many fire hazards could be lurking in their home right now.
Hidden fire hazards are particularly devastating, as they do catch families by surprise. Families may go to bed at night believing that their home is completely safe, only to wake to the smell of smoke and a blaring fire alarm a few hours later.
Common Fire Hazards Hidden In The Home
There are a number of hidden fire hazards in the average home, and knowing more about these potential hidden hazards can help you to protect your family and your property. Some of these common fire hazards include:
- Extension cords – Extension cords are convenient, and they can be found in just about every home in the United States. However, when extension cords are overloaded, when connections begin to go bad, or when the use of these devices is careless, a fire can begin with shocking rapidity. Electrical equipment like extension cords is the cause of around 9% of all home fires each year.
- Gas water heaters – Gas water heaters are a common sight in many American homes, and they’re often kept in basements and far out of sight. Also common in American basements are washing and drying machines, along with laundry to be washed or folded accordingly. Laundry or other pieces of debris near gas water heaters can ignite when the water heater turns on, leading to a silent fire that may not be noticed until it’s too late.
- Dirty stoves – Gas stoves may catch fire even when you’re being diligent while cooking. When grease and grime accumulate on the surface of the stove or its burners, it can ignite when the stove is turned on.
- Antique appliances – While that antique oven may look great in your retro revival kitchen, the wires inside may be growing brittle and dangerous with age. The same goes for light fixtures and any other antique that generates heat and energy. Rather than going for the real thing when it comes to these household fixtures, it’s safer to opt for retro reproduction pieces with modern wiring instead.
Your Home Taken Care Of
No homeowner wants to face a fire, but the unfortunate reality is that many wills. If your home catches fire, it’s important to have the right restoration company to restore your home when disaster strikes. Our professionals are here to make sure your fire-damaged home and belongings can be restored, giving you your life back with the most stress-free experience possible. If your home has fallen victim to fire, call us at Disaster Response today.
