Most Common Causes of House Fires in Missouri

Of all of the different catastrophes that can occur in a home, fires are one of the most devastating. Not only can they cause significant damage to the structure and its contents, but they can also be incredibly dangerous for families and their pets. Unfortunately, these kinds of disasters are all too common because there are many different things that can cause them.

In order to avoid the devastation, homeowners should learn more about how to prevent house fires. This guide from an experienced fire restoration company covers some of the most common causes of fire damage. Keep reading to learn more about some precautions that could make a difference in the safety of Missouri homes.

Cooking Fires

The majority of house fires start in the kitchen. In fact, cooking incidents account for nearly half of all fire damage insurance claims because there are so many dangers. Cooking fires can occur when stoves or ovens are left unattended–even for a short period of time! Homeowners may also find themselves battling flames if their stovetop is cluttered with any kind of food packaging, towels, wooden utensils, or other flammable objects.

If the fire is caught early enough, homeowners may be able to put it out without emergency assistance. For example, grease fires can be extinguished by covering the pan and removing it from the heat source. 

Electrical Systems

Another common cause of house fires is problems with electrical systems or equipment. Older homes with bad wiring are especially prone to fires. However, any home with faulty wiring is at risk. 

Appliances with frayed wires can also leave a home vulnerable. They can cause arcs, and the sparks can set fire to nearby objects such as curtains, carpets, and wood furniture. Power surges are another electrical event that can send a home up in flames. Fortunately, smart sensor devices and routine electrical inspections can prevent many of these fires.

Heating Equipment

Missouri winters can get cold, so many homeowners resort to different heating methods to keep their homes comfortable. Unfortunately, this equipment can increase the risk of house fires. 

For example, old space heaters can overheat and burn anything within three feet. Even newer space heaters could be tipped on accident and lead to a fire. If homes use furnaces or chimneys, they should make sure that they are professionally inspected before each winter. 

Smoking

Households with residents who smoke are at a higher risk for house fires because there are many ways that a single cigarette can send a home up in flames. Fortunately, there are also many ways it can be prevented. As an experienced fire restoration company, ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Springfield recommends the following practices to prevent fires from smoking:

• Smoke outside to avoid dropping hot ash on flammable materials
• Ensure cigarettes are put out all the way before placing them in the trash
• Don’t smoke while sleepy or under the influence of alcohol or medication
• Never smoke around a medical oxygen tank, even if the oxygen is off
• Never smoke in bed where you could drop ash on the mattress or fall asleep

Candles

Candles are a wonderful way to create a calm and cozy ambiance in a home, and they smell great! However, candles can also account for thousands of dollars in property damage. House fires can occur when candles are left unattended. It can also happen if the candle is too close to flammable objects. A professional fire restoration company recommends keeping candles at least one foot away from combustible items when lit. 

Homeowners should also keep candlewicks trimmed and avoid burning candles to the bottom of their containers. Candles should never be left to burn at night, and they should always be out of reach of children.

Christmas Trees

Finally, homeowners need to be aware of the added risk that Christmas trees create. While you don’t have to give up a beloved holiday tradition, homeowners should use caution when decorating a live tree. They may catch on fire if they are too close to a heat source. The trees become even more combustible as they dry, so homeowners should always make sure they have adequate water. Brittle needles that fall off easily indicate that a tree is drying out too much.

Learn More About The Main Causes of Fire Damage in Missouri Homes

To avoid calling a fire restoration company, homeowners should take extra precautions to protect their homes. If a fire does occur, however, they can count on the experts of ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Springfield to help. They are available 24/7 for emergency services, so customers can call any time a fire occurs.