A house fire can be a life-changing and sometimes fatal event; however, these incidents can often be prevented. Certain areas of your home are more susceptible to fires, so recognizing these areas are essential for fire prevention. Staying on top of home maintenance and best practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire to keep your family and home safe.

Common Areas Where House Fires Start

1. Kitchen

The kitchen is the most common area for fires to start. Many kitchen appliances can spark, and the open flame of a gas stove can be dangerous as well. Fabrics can catch fire, pots and pans can overheat, food can burn in the oven, grease can ignite—there are many dangerous possibilities. The key to reducing this risk is mindfulness. Always pay attention when cooking and have a fire extinguisher nearby so you can stop issues from spreading.

2. Laundry Room

The laundry room is another epicenter for house fires. Between faulty wiring and a buildup of lint in the dryer and vent system,  dryer fires are a common occurrence, so schedule a dryer vent cleaning regularly. If your appliances are dated, have a home maintenance professional inspect the cables, housing, and motors for signs of wear.

3. Heating Features

Most central heating systems are located in closets or the basement, which can drastically increase the potential of a house fire. Have them inspected at least once a year—ideally, right before heavy use in the winter. Portable heating systems can spark a fire as well, so make sure your space heaters are always far away from any fabric and are turned off when you’re not around. If you rely on a fireplace, have your chimney cleaned as well; as soot and other materials build up, they can ignite and lead to a fire.

 

If you’re overdue for a home maintenance inspection, turn to ABC Services, LLC of Cincinnati, OH. This team provides a variety of handyman services, including vent repair and cleaning, gutter cleaning, and electrical services. They’re proud to offer free estimates to customers and are committed to building lasting relationships through superior service. Call (513) 801-4454 to schedule repairs and visit their website for a full breakdown of their home maintenance services.