Prevent In-home Fires With These Easy Steps | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

Are you dealing with damage due to a house fire? Contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills to learn more about our fire restoration services.

In 2022, the American Red Cross has already responded to over 20,000 in-home fires. And it is important to take steps to prevent them because that number doesn’t even scratch the surface of the approximately 346,000 the country sees per year.

Smoke detectors are still the primary way to prevent the damages fires can cause, but here are some ways to strengthen your prevention efforts:

Make Sure That Your House Is Clutter-Free

In addition to being generally unsightly, clutter in hallways and stairwells can become a fire hazard. Blankets, loose clothing and other cloth items are especially flammable in the event of a house fire. When clothes are left near a water heater, they can also start a fire.

While having more open space can prevent fueling a fire, it also serves as a means to clearing escape routes in the event of an in-home fire.

Another common cause of fires is overloaded extension cords. Unplugging less commonly used appliances and clearing unused electrical appliances can help reduce this risk.

Leaving space between furniture and wall outlets is a great way to promote proper airflow and reduce overheating.

Create a Defensible Space in Your Yard

Your yard is the primary line of defense when it comes to a fire that originates outside. Being intentional with your landscaping and spreading out your plants helps to protect your home and grants workspace to firemen who are responding to your emergency.

Because this is a frequent issue, fire-prone states like California have issued defensible zone requirements for yards. Because Oregon is just as prone to fires, it would be smart to implement these practices.

This should not discourage anyone from doing their typical gardening. Instead, place plants strategically to provide the most protection. It is also a good idea to clear out anything that could add fuel to the flames, like dead plants or limbs.

Keep It Clean & Keep It Safe

To bolster decluttering your home and yard, spring-cleaning will help reduce fire hazards. Taking the time for a deep-clean on your stove and having your chimney cleaned and inspected can prevent a fire.

Although all these things can seem cumbersome, even something as simple as dusting your surfaces can be a form of fire prevention. Note and address the dust gathering near appliances and outlets.

When fire prevention can be as simple as maintaining a clean and tidy home, it is a no-brainer to take these steps and prevent the potentially devastating damage it can cause.

If you have experienced fire damage or want to learn more about our fire damage restoration services, contact us today. We’re here to act fast, ²⁴⁄₇.