The number of fires reported in the United States in 2009 almost topped about 2.5 million with an estimated loss of just under 10 billion dollars. More disturbing is that these fires resulted in 3,900 deaths and around 18,000 injuries. The USFA estimates that in 2004 the number of deaths because of fires was greater than all other causes of death combined for the same period of time. What makes these numbers even more shocking is that a lot of small fires that result in only minor injury are not even reported. Most of these fires whether fatal or not take place in a home. The good news is that fire is preventable is basics of home fire prevention guidelines to ensure safety are followed.
The very best way to prevent a fire in homes is to put in smoke detectors and fire alarms. These detectors should be installed on every floor and in places were fires are likely to start like a kitchen, as well as being installed in all bedrooms. But just installing these fire alarms is not a forever solution. The biggest cause of smoke detector failure is that the homeowner simply didn’t check that the battery was working. The batteries should be checked at least once a month and the entire detector should be tested to make sure it works frequently. Also, don’t smoke in your home as this is among the biggest causes of house fires.
The second biggest cause of fires is an electrical short circuit. While some of this may be out of the homeowner’s control make sure that that properly rated wires were used for the home. Check the voltage rating of things that are to be plugged in so that it doesn’t overload the circuit. Try to keep all cords off the carpet and disconnect plugs that you aren’t actively using. For old electric appliances that are malfunctioning they should be replaced promptly to avoid a problem.
In the past few years another big problem for house fires is space heaters that are left on or in close proximity to fabrics. Unplug the heater when not in use and keep it far from anything flammable.
Fireplaces can be a fire hazard so be sure to keep the fireplace in good working order. Use screens to prevent any sparks from lighting anything combustible. Don’t load the fireplace with too much wood since the natural popping and shifting of burning wood could mean that it falls from the fireplace. Always be sure the chimney is kept clean and clear.
The best defense for house fires is a good evacuation plan. Practicing a route for escape is vital to knowing what needs to be done in a dire situation. Create plans for every room in the house and educate the entire family with a lot of practice. Children cause around 100,000 fires every year so educating young kids is vital to the safety of the entire home.
