Common Fire Hazards That Can Be Found In Your Home

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A single fire can set you back hundreds and thousands of dirhams worth in property damages. The thing is, for the most part, fire hazards are preventable. From candles to electronics, taking preventive steps in fire safety can make a difference in minimizing risks versus dealing with potential life-threatening dangers.

There are five common causes of household fire hazards that are right in your home:

  1. Lit candles

Leaving a lit candle unattended is a recipe for disaster and one of the most common ways fires start. So, when you decide to have a nice candle-lit dinner or simply use it for additional illumination, make sure you consider these:

  • Use candles that come in jars. These are more contained and are safer to use compared to regular candlesticks.
  • Never sleep with a candle still lit. Ensure that all candles are blown out before going to bed.
  • Place them on non-flammable surfaces and at least 12 inches from any material (e.g. paper or cloth) that can burn.
  • Never burn a candle all the way down.
  • Use a holder that won’t easily tip or slip.
  1. Unsupervised cooking

Cooking is typically one of those tasks that tend to be done alongside other things. However, being distracted or multi-tasking while cooking can be really dangerous as it increases potential margins for errors to happen. Whenever you’re in the kitchen, remember these five things:

  • In case of a grease fire, put a lid on the pan.
  • Be mindful and always keep an eye on the food you’re cooking. As much as possible, try not to multi-task.
  • Wear fitted clothing that has short or tightly-rolled sleeves.
  • Keep any flammable material way from heat sources.
  • Never ever place metal or foil inside the microwave.

3. Faulty electrical systems

Poor electric installations or exposed wiring can cause sparks, equipment malfunction, or even overheating. Some of the things you can do to prevent this are:

  • Hire professional electrical inspectors annually.
  • Repair, replace, and regularly maintain electrical cords.

4. Smoking

Improper disposal of your cigarettes or cigars can easily result in a fire. As basic as this action may be, most people underestimate the potential risk it can bring. That is why you should smoke responsibly:

  • Consider smoking outside.
  • Always use a wide, sturdy ashtray.
  • Make it a point to douse cigarette butts with water, sand, or simply step on them to make sure that the fire is completely out.
  • Avoid smoking in a house that has an oxygen tank or concentrator.
  • Place matches and lighters in areas that children won’t reach.

Taking the time to check your house for potential fire hazards can make a significant difference in protecting your family. Even better, contacting a professional to inspect your home and set a reliable fire safety system can be a great way to mitigate potential risks.