An Ounce of Prevention: 10 Tips to Help You Avoid a House Fire

Did you know that house fires are one of the most common emergencies? In fact, almost 400,000 house fires occur each year in the United States alone.

While some fires are accidental, many are preventable.

Keeping your home clean is one of the best ways to help prevent a fire from starting. By taking some simple precautions, you can help keep your family safe from fire.

Here are 10 tips to help you avoid a house fire:

1. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended

Candles are a common cause of house fires. If you must use them, blow them out before leaving the room.

This might seem obvious or like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to do this. If you’re going to use candles, put them in a safe place where they can’t be knocked over.

If you have children or pets, consider using flameless candles. They look and smell like real candles, but they’re safe to use around kids and animals.

2. Keep Your Backyard Clean

It’s essential to keep your backyard clean. This means removing any leaves, branches, or debris that might have accumulated. The more clutter there is, the greater the risk of a fire.

For example, if you have a grill, clean it regularly. All that grease and fat can build up and cause a fire.

If you have a fire pit, be sure to keep it clean as well. Don’t let ashes accumulate. And when you’re done using it for the night, ensure the fire is completely out.

3. Don’t Overload Outlets

Outlets can quickly become overloaded, which is a significant fire hazard. When multiple devices are plugged into one outlet, the wiring can overheat and cause a fire.

To avoid this, plug only one device into each outlet. Use a power strip with built-in circuit breakers if you need multiple devices. If there’s a problem, the power strip will shut off automatically.

Some people like to use extension cords, but they can also be dangerous. If possible, avoid using them. If you must use them, ensure they’re not damaged and are not overloaded.

Many people don’t realize that outlets and cords can be a fire hazard. By taking some simple precautions, you can help prevent a fire in your home.

4. Don’t Smoke Inside

Smoking is one of the leading causes of house fires. If you smoke, do it outside. And if you must smoke inside, be very careful.

Never smoke in bed. And make sure to use a deep ashtray that can’t be easily knocked over.

If you have smokers in your home, ensure they understand the risks. Having working smoke detectors in your home is also a good idea. Doing so can help give you an early warning if a fire does start.

5. Keep Flammable Liquids Away From Heat Sources

Flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, and alcohol are common in many homes. But if they’re not stored properly, they can be a significant fire hazard.

Keep these liquids in cool, dry places away from any heat sources. And make sure they’re properly labeled. This will help you avoid any accidents.

6. Don’t Leave the Stove Unattended

If you’re cooking, don’t leave the stove unattended. This is one of the most common causes of house fires.

If you have to leave the room, even for a minute, turn off the stove. And if you’re cooking with oil, be extra careful. Oil can catch fire very quickly.

7. Keep Your Home Clean

A dirty home is a fire hazard.

Think about it – a home full of clutter is a home full of potential fuel for a fire. So do yourself (and your home) a favor, and keep it clean. Not only will it be easier to find things, but you’ll also reduce your fire risk.

Start by decluttering your home regularly. Get rid of anything you don’t need, use, or love. And be sure to keep your home clean and tidy daily. This means wiping up spills, putting away dishes, and taking out the trash.

8. Inspect Your Appliances Regularly

Appliances like your furnace, water heater, and dryer can be a significant fire hazard if they’re not properly maintained. That’s why it’s essential to inspect them regularly.

Be sure to look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, frayed wires, or leaks. If you notice anything that doesn’t look right, be sure to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

You should also make a point of getting your furnace and dryer professionally cleaned at least once a year. This will help to remove any built-up lint.

9. Install a Smoke Alarm

A smoke alarm is one of the best ways to protect your home from a fire. It can give you an early warning if there’s a fire and help to keep your family safe.

Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home and in each bedroom. And be sure to test them regularly to ensure they’re working correctly.

10. Hire a Cleaning Company

Getting your home cleaned regularly is a great way to reduce your risk of a fire. A professional cleaning company will have the knowledge and experience to properly clean your home, including those hard-to-reach places.

And when it comes to preventing a fire, there’s no such thing as being too safe. So if you’re concerned about the safety of your home, hiring a professional cleaning company is a great way to ease your mind.

Custom Maids, for example, provides professional cleaning services to help keep your home safe and clean. 

We use state-of-the-art equipment and eco-friendly cleaning products to clean your house. And our team of highly trained maids are background checked and insured, so you can rest assured that your home is in good hands.

Contact us today to learn more about our cleaning services or schedule a free consultation.