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How To Guard Your Home Against A House Fire

How To Guard Your Home Against A House Fire

Wednesday, 10 July 2024 16:15

Residential fires pose a significant danger to households and their occupants. These fires can start unexpectedly and spread rapidly, causing extensive damage to property and posing a serious threat to human life.

In addition to the immediate dangers of heat and smoke inhalation, residential fires can lead to long-term consequences such as displacement, financial losses, and emotional trauma for those affected. It is essential for every household to be aware of the potential risks and to take proactive measures to prevent and prepare for the possibility of a residential fire.

In this article, we’re discussing the potential danger of home fires and what you and your family can do to protect yourselves. 

Are Home Fires Really Something About Which My Family Should Worry?

A few concerning states about fire include:

  • Frequency of Structural Fires: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.3 million fires in 2020, of which 356,500 were structure fires.
  • Fire-Related Deaths: Structure fires accounted for 2,580 civilian deaths in 2020, representing 74% of all fire deaths that year.
  • Fire-Related Injuries: In 2020, structure fires resulted in 11,550 civilian fire injuries.
  • Property Damage: Structure fires caused an estimated $12.1 billion in property damage in 2020.
  • Leading Cause of Structure Fires: Cooking is the leading cause of structure fires and home fire injuries, accounting for 49% of all home fires.
  • Heating Equipment Fires: Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries and the third leading cause of home fire deaths.
  • Electrical Fires: Electrical distribution and lighting equipment were involved in approximately 10% of reported home structure fires, 19% of home fire deaths, and 10% of home fire injuries.
  • Intentional Fires: Intentional fires are the fourth leading cause of home fire deaths, accounting for 8% of all home fire deaths.
  • Smoke Alarms: In fires considered large enough to activate a smoke alarm, 74% of home structure fires had smoke alarms that operated. However, 26% of the fires had no smoke alarms or alarms that did not operate.
  • Sprinkler Systems: Homes with sprinklers can reduce the risk of fire deaths by 80% and the average property loss per fire by 70%.

How Can You Protect Yourself, Your Family, And Your Home?

how to guard your home against a house fire

1) Install Smoke Detectors In Every Room

The NFPA recommends that you install detectors inside every bedroom, outside every sleeping area (e.g., in the hallway), and on every level of your home. If you need to add more, do so now and test the batteries in your existing detectors.

2) Practice Fire Safety With Your Children

Don’t scare them, but do teach them what to do in case of a fire. Test the alarm so they know what it sounds like, and then practice leaving the home. Show your children (and other household members) two ways to get out of every room in case one is blocked. 

In addition to regular fire drills, having a comprehensive emergency plan can ensure everyone knows what to do in a fire. Establish a meeting spot outside your home. Teach your children to escape the house immediately: no stopping to grab items. Their job is to get out. You can call 911 from outside.

Components Of An Emergency Plan:

  • Escape Routes: Identify all possible escape routes from your home.
  • Meeting Point: Designate a safe meeting point outside your home.
  • Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including neighbors and relatives.
  • Pet Safety: Plan for the safety of pets during an emergency.
  • Stop, drop, and roll. If clothing catches on fire, do not run. This will fan the flames, so to speak. Instead, smother the fire: stop, drop, and roll.
  • Practice saves lives. If you do have a real emergency, it will help your children remember what to do.

3) Add Fire And Emergency Services To Your Security System

Aside from smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, you also have the option to include a panic button in your security system. In the event of an emergency, simply press the panic button, and our team will swiftly dispatch firefighters to your location, ensuring immediate assistance when it's needed most.

4) Get Your Furnace Serviced

Heating equipment is the biggest cause of home fires in the winter. Before the cold weather sets in, call for a tune-up and cleaning. This will ensure it’s both ready and safe to use. If you heat with wood, have your chimney cleaned.

5) Be Careful With Space Heaters

Two out of five fires are started by a space heater. If you use one, make sure it has an automatic shut-off. If it tips over, it will stop operating before it can start a fire.

6) Remove Objects From Around The Heat Source

Whether you use a wood stove, fireplace (always use the screen), or space heaters, clear the zone! Keep furniture, clothing, bedding, and other flammable materials at least three feet from the heat source.

7) Don’t Run Your Holiday Lights All Day

During the holidays, you need to be careful not to run your holiday lights when you’re not home or while you’re sleeping. Not only does running your lights all day increase the odds of a fire, but it also drives up your utility bill! 

Additionally, do not connect more than three strands of lights; consider switching to LED, look for UL certification, and use outdoor-specific lights. Inside, make sure your Christmas tree is well-hydrated. Those dry needles become like kindling, and a light malfunction can be catastrophic.

8) Watch The Candles

The soft glow of candles is peaceful in the winter - but candles are another leading cause of winter house fires. In the spring and summer, candles are handy for lighting the way when storms bring power outages. However, it’s vital you do not leave them burning unattended and keep them at least a foot away from flammable objects.

7) Create A Fire-Resistant Landscape

Creating a fire-resistant landscape around your home can prevent fires from spreading.

  • Remove Dead Vegetation: Clear dead plants, leaves, and other flammable materials from your yard.
  • Space Plants Properly: Maintain proper spacing between trees and shrubs to prevent the rapid spread of fire.
  • Fire-Resistant Plants: Consider planting fire-resistant plants that are less likely to ignite.

8) Store Flammable Materials Safely

Proper storage of flammable materials is essential to prevent accidental fires.

  • Store gasoline, paint, and other flammable liquids in approved containers.
  • Keep these materials in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources.

9) Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials

When renovating or building a home, consider using fire-resistant building materials.

  • Fire-resistant roofing materials
  • Non-combustible siding
  • Double-pane windows to reduce the risk of breakage during a fire

10) Fire Safety Checklist

Creating a fire safety checklist can help ensure your home is prepared. Develop and display your list somewhere prominent in your home. Your list should include: 

  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
  • Test alarms regularly
  • Practice fire drills with your family
  • Maintain heating equipment
  • Use space heaters safely
  • Follow holiday light safety tips
  • Keep your Christmas tree hydrated
  • Practice candle safety
  • Create a fire-resistant landscape
  • Store flammable materials safely
  • Use fire-resistant building materials

11) Maintain Your Electrical Systems

Faulty electrical systems are a common cause of house fires. Ensure your electrical systems are up to code and functioning correctly.

Tips For Electrical Safety:

  • Regular Inspections: Have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring regularly.
  • Avoid Overloading Outlets: Do not overload electrical outlets with too many devices.
  • Use Extension Cords Sparingly: Extension cords should be a temporary solution, not a permanent fix.
  • Replace Damaged Cords: Frayed or damaged cords should be replaced immediately to prevent short circuits.

12) Keep Fire Extinguishers Handy

Having fire extinguishers in key locations of your home can help you tackle small fires before they spread.

Tips For Fire Extinguishers:

  • Placement: Keep fire extinguishers in easily accessible locations, such as the kitchen and garage.
  • Maintenance: Regularly check that your fire extinguishers are charged and in working condition.
  • Know How To Use Them: Ensure everyone in your household knows how to use a fire extinguisher properly.

13) Install A Home Sprinkler System

A home sprinkler system can provide an additional layer of fire protection. Benefits include:

  • Immediate Response: Sprinkler systems can quickly suppress a fire, reducing damage and increasing safety.
  • Insurance Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes equipped with sprinkler systems.

14) Be Mindful Of Cooking Safety

The kitchen is a common area for house fires to start. Practicing safe cooking habits can prevent accidents. Cooking safety tips include:

  • Stay Attentive: Never leave cooking food unattended.
  • Keep Flammable Items Away: Ensure that towels, potholders, and other flammable items are kept away from the stove.
  • Clean Regularly: Keep your stove and oven clean to prevent grease fires.
  • Use A Timer: Use a timer to remind you when food is cooking.

15) Regularly Review And Update Your Fire Safety Measures

Fire safety is an ongoing process. Regularly review and update your fire safety measures to ensure they remain effective. 

  • Annual Reviews: Conduct a comprehensive review of your fire safety measures at least once a year.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest fire safety recommendations and technologies.
  • Adjust As Needed: Make adjustments to your fire safety measures as your home and family’s needs change.

Let Integrity Security Help You Protect Your Home From A House Fire

At Integrity Security, we are dedicated to helping you protect your home against fires. Our fire alarm systems are designed to provide early warnings, giving you and your family the time needed to evacuate safely. 

Contact us today to learn more about our fire alarm systems and how we can help you safeguard your home against fire hazards. Your safety is our priority; we are here to provide the best fire protection solutions for your home.