Common fire hazards we often forget about at home

We’re often so relaxed at home that it can be easy forget about potential fire risks. However, there are perhaps more of them at home than anywhere else. From candles to electrical equipment, there are a numerous objects in our home with the potential to start a fire, something that is worth keeping in mind to ensure that we don’t become complacent.

As a reminder, this month, the team at Cheshire Fire will be providing a list of common fire hazards in the home that we often forget about, encouraging our readers to be vigilant.

Candles

Who doesn’t love the romantic glow of candlelight in the evening? The soft light immediately adds an atmosphere to any room and helps us relax, but you might want to think twice before lighting a candle and leaving the room. From 2007-2011 in the USA, there was an average of 10,630 fires that were started by candles, causing 115 deaths and $418 million in property damage. That’s an average of 29 candle fires a day.

At least a third of these fires were started in the bedroom because of candles that were left too near to flammable items. With this in mind, make sure that you always light candles at least 12 inches away from anything that might burn.

Electrical equipment

Whether it’s equipment malfunction or an overloaded circuit, electrical fires can have many origins. However, we tend not to see these items as potential causes of fire. As a result we become careless with electrical equipment, something which can have dire consequences.

In order to avoid such fires, it’s absolutely vital not to overloads any outlets or electrical cords, as this is certainly a fire hazard. On top of this, it’s important to make sure that things such as Christmas lights or small halogen lights are not left on overnight.

Matches and lighters

While these items aren’t necessarily a huge fire risk on their own, with children in the house these items become extremely dangerous. Young children who get hold of such objects could well be fascinated by them and, if they don’t know what they are, could end up starting a fire.

In order to stop a such a tragedy occurring, make sure that you keep matches, lighters  and any sources of ignition away from children, and ensure that children receive fire safety training from an early age.

Cheshire Fire provides businesses of all kinds with high quality fire risk assessments, fire safety training and fire fighting equipment. With our guidance, you can rest assured your premises will meet all fire safety legislation. Our experts will help make your business as hazard-free as possible and ensure you are equipped and qualified to react appropriately in the event of a fire. To improve your workplace fire safety in Chester, Warrington or the surrounding areas, get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help.