Did you know that the National Fire Protection Association recorded more than 1.3 million fires across the United States in 2016? While most Arizona homeowners are used to protecting their home and property against the suns harmful UV rays, fire safety should also be high on your list of priorities. As your trusted Arizona insurance agency, we want to help make sure you and your family have the right level of insurance protection to meet your needs. In addition to investing in comprehensive home insurance, we suggest following a few simple fire safety steps as well.
What Are the Top 7 Most Common Causes of House Fires?
1. Cooking Accidents
Every homeowner spends time in the kitchen, even if it is just to boil some water. Help avoid kitchen fires from breaking out by remembering to always keep paper towels, hand towels, and pot holders far away from your burners. If a grease fire should flare up, remember to never use water on the flames; instead, try to smother the fire or use a fire extinguisher to put it out.
2. Candles
Candles make a great decorative addition to any room in your home, but it’s important to make sure that they are never set close to furniture or curtains. Remember to always light your candles on a fire-safe surface or in an approved container and never leave candles burning unattended.
3. Smoking
If you or any of your guests’ smoke, be sure to follow safe practices when smoking indoors. Never leave a cigarette or cigar burning unattended and always extinguish them in an ashtray or another fire-safe container. Never smoke in a bedroom and if possible, smoke outdoors instead of inside of your home.
4. Dryer Vents
Cleaning out your dryer vents may seem like an insignificant chore, but, it is very important. The combination of extreme heat from your dryer and lint from your clothing can easily start a fast-spreading fire under the right circumstances. In this case, it is better safe than sorry, so be sure to clean out your dryer vents regularly.
5. Flammable Liquids
Many common household cleaners are flammable, so make sure everyone in your family is aware of how to use and store them away properly. Additionally, DIY materials like paint, solvents and even oils are also very flammable. Make sure they are kept away from children and pets and that you always clean up after you finish a project.
6. Electrical Fires
Overloaded electrical outlets can very quickly begin to spark and cause a fire to break out in your home. Avoid overloading electrical outlets by only plugging in one appliance per outlet and using extension cords only when necessary. If you must use extension cords in a room, remember to never run the cord underneath furniture or rugs.
7. Outdoor Fires
If you like to grill or enjoy roasting marshmallows outside in your fire pit, make sure that you are exercising extreme caution around open flames. Always use your grill at a safe distance from your home or other outdoor structures. Keeping up with grill maintenance is another way to prevent fires. Be sure to clean your grill regularly to avoid grease fires and other malfunctions.
Invest in Comprehensive Home Insurance Today
Help protect your assets and loved ones in the event of a fire with comprehensive insurance coverage. Want to learn more about the many benefits of a great home insurance policy? Visit the team at Imes Insurance Associates, Inc online for more information and be sure to request a quote today.
