Residential fires are among the most common type of home disaster in the U.S., averaging more than 380,000 incidents during 2013–2017. But even with suppression systems in place, homes remain susceptible because fires can spread quickly. As such, it’s essential to have easy access to extinguishers to prevent extensive damage that requires fire restoration services. Below are some of the critical places to keep your fire extinguishers at home.

Where Should You Keep a Fire Extinguisher?

1. Kitchen

Cooking was the primary reason for most residential fires reported between 2012 – 2016. Among these incidents, most were the result of unattended stovetops. Since cooking mostly happens in the kitchen, make sure that yours has a fire extinguisher readily available. However, avoid placing the device near the stove where flames can damage it or make it inaccessible when you need it most. If you like to grill outside, keep an extinguisher close by in a highly-visible spot in case of flare-ups. 

2. Bedrooms

If your home is small, mount the fire extinguishers in the hallway adjacent to frequently used rooms. For homes with two or more levels, keep one on each floor and place it in a central location where everyone can see. Have a spare extinguisher in the bedrooms as well to contain small fires. Refrain from putting it out of sight or hiding it behind drapes or curtains—you’ll need access to it quickly during emergencies.

3. Laundry Room

Apart from stoves, clothes dryers and washing machines have also triggered thousands of home fires over the years. Most fires involving dryers began by igniting something—like lint, dust, fiber, or clothes—while operating. For washing machines, the leading causes were traced to damaged electrical wiring or cable insulation and inadequate housing or casing. Place the extinguisher near the washer and dryer but not over them, as it would be hard to access in a fire.

4. Garage

Garages and outhouses, like storage sheds and workshops, contain plenty of combustible materials. Papers, paints, solvents, gas canisters, and other chemicals can start a fire in your home. Mount the extinguisher in a highly visible area and away from the clutter. Don’t forget to check if it’s labeled for flammable liquids.

5. Near Heat Sources

Next to cooking, heating equipment is another leading cause of residential fires. Space heaters, fireplaces, and chimneys have contributed to casualties and property damage. Always keep a fire extinguisher at hand to douse wayward flames right away. Like in the kitchen, avoid placing it near the heat source but at a safe distance away.

If the unfortunate happens, opt for fire restoration services from Rumpke Restoration. They provide residents across the Greater Cincinnati area with a range of damage restoration services, including mold remediation, water removal, and cleanup. They serve the cities of Loveland, Milford, West Chester, Mason, Amelia, Batavia, Anderson, New Richmond, Northside, Hamilton, Fairfield, Springfield, Dayton, OH; Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, Highland, Warren counties; Union, Montgomery, and Symmes Townships; and the Village of Indian Hill. To set a fire restoration appointment, call (513) 760-5501 or inquire online.