A house fire is one of the most catastrophic things that can happen to you. Even if there are no physical injuries, the expenses from fire damage and smoke removal can be overwhelming, and the effects can follow your family for years. There’s no way to protect yourself from the risk of a house fire completely, but there are several good habits homeowners can follow to reduce their risk of starting one significantly. Here are just a few ways to protect your home from unexpected fires. 

How Can You Help Prevent a Fire at Home?

1. Be Careful in the Kitchen

The kitchen is the site of many accidents and a common starting point for fire. Never store your dishcloths or oven mitts on the oven or near the burners. Keep your counters and stovetop clean and free of grease, and make sure to check your smoke detector in the kitchen frequently. Finally, stay in the kitchen whenever you are cooking, and have a small fire extinguisher close at hand to snuff out grease fires or burns before they get out of control. 

2. Check and Maintain Wiring & Cords 

Electrical cords and wiring are some of the most common causes of fire damage. Check all the wires and exposed wiring around your house for any signs of fraying or splitting. Do not pinch cords under doors or cover them with rugs or carpet. Don’t overload any of your outlets, and know how much electricity your home wiring can safely handle. Surge protectors are a great way to alleviate some of the burdens on your system by protecting it from overload. 

3. Be Careful When Using Alternative Heat

Another common cause of fire damage is alternative sources of heat, such as space heaters, other than your standard HVAC system. While new space heaters are often equipped with shut-off sensors, older models can pose a significant fire risk. Never place a space heater anywhere near interior fabrics, like curtains, sheets, or upholstery. Before using your fireplace, make sure it is properly cleaned and has been inspected. 

Blue Ridge Property Restore in Martinsburg, VA, provides quality restoration services and disaster cleanup for Northern Virginia, Eastern West Virginia, and Central Pennsylvania. Their highly trained technicians can handle the whole range of fire damage, including smoke removal, and water damage, like mold remediation and water removal. They are even available for crime scene cleanup. For more information or to schedule your free estimate, call (304) 262-8100 or visit them online today.