House fires are an enormous problem
in the United States. According to the U.S. Fire
Administration, residential structural fires represent 84% of
all fire deaths and 81% of fire injuries annually (2008).
According to the same source, in 2008 there were 403,000
residential structural fires, resulting in 2,780 deaths and
13,560 injuries.
Given that the toll of house fires
is so high, what can be done to help prevent house fires from
occurring? The following are some useful tips that may save
you and your family’s
life:
·
Electrical
fires-
ensuring that damaged wiring is
repaired is important, especially if you live in an older
home. Have your home inspected by a certified electrician.
Make sure extension cords are in god working condition with no
fraying. Do not overload extension cords- be sure to buy a
proper-sized cord for your needs. Do not overload circuits.
Inspect wall outlets- if cords seem to fit too loosely, this
may indicate a damaged outlet.
· Light
bulbs-
use the correct wattage of light
bulb throughout the house. Using light bulbs of improper
wattage may cause overheating and lead to a house
fire.
·
Candles- candles are a leading cause of house
fires. Never go to sleep while a candle is burning. Never
allow children to play near lit candles. Always use candles on
appropriate surfaces. Never use candles in areas where there
may be gas, such as near a furnace or in the garage,
especially in areas that are
enclosed.
·
Kitchen
fires- these
are another common cause of house fires. Never leave a stove
unattended while cooking. Oils, grease, and fat all have the
ability to catch on fire. Have the necessary
implements/knowledge to handle this type of fire should it
occur. Ensure there is nothing close to the stove that may
catch on fire, such as paper, cans that may explode if heated,
etcetera.
·
Fireplaces-
fireplaces are beautiful and can
help to heat your home, but you should never lose sight of the
fact that they can cause a fire. Make sure your fireplace is
maintained regularly by professionals and that your chimney is
kept clean. Make sure there is an adequate cover in front of
the fire to prevent sparks and embers from escaping and
causing a fire. Never let children close to a burning
fireplace-the fireplace should be
off-limits.
·
Kerosene
heaters-
these cause many fires each year.
Kerosene heaters are a dangerous way to heat your home as
kerosene is very flammable, especially if mixed with other
flammable liquids. Many deaths caused by kerosene heaters are
due to asphyxiation, due to the fact that they burn oxygen
when lit. If you use a kerosene heater, it is strongly
suggested that you buy a carbon monoxide detector to prevent
carbon monoxide poisoning and
death.
·
Clothing
Dryers-
Ensure the lint trap is kept
free of collected lint and that the dryer is vented properly.
Do not overheat the dryer by over-drying
clothing.
It is important to practice fire
safety in your home, especially if you have children. Be sure
that you have ample smoke detectors in your home. Change
batteries on smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
twice a year. Purchase a fire extinguisher and be sure that
everyone of appropriate age knows how to use it. Plan routes
of escape with your family so that everyone knows how to get
out of the house safely should fire break out. Arrange a
meeting place outside for family members so that no one is
separated in case of fire- this will ensure that the fire
department can account for all family members. Never re-enter
a burning building to retrieve a pet, a belonging or even
another person- this is best left to
professionals.
