Alarming and destructive, a house fire is an unfortunate reality for many. Although the methods and products used in fire damage restoration have come a long way in recent years, it’s always better to minimize the chances of one breaking out in the first place. To prevent a blaze, make sure you and your family are aware of these potential sources.

Why Homes Often Need Fire Damage Restoration

1. Kitchen Appliances

Whether it’s the stove, oven, microwave, or toaster oven, if you have a kitchen appliance that’s left unsupervised for too long, there’s a chance it could catch on fire. It’s also dangerous to attempt to heat certain items—like putting something metal in a microwave. When cooking or warming anything up, always stay in the room and keep an eye on it.

2. Candles, Cigarettes, or Cigars

Like kitchen appliances, these objects should never be left unattended, especially in areas like the living room or a bedroom, which have many flammable objects, such as wooden and upholstered furniture. Fire damage restoration for the latter is particularly difficult since the smoke and soot can penetrate deep past the surface. Always extinguish them if you’ll be leaving the room for more than a few minutes. 

3. Dryer Lint

One of the more surprising causes of house fires is dryer lint. Because it’s airy and filled with small fibers, it’s quite effective as kindling. If there’s too much in the lint screen, the high heat from the dryer can ignite it and start a fire. To avoid this, dispose of the lint after every load. 

4. Frayed Wiring

Whether the damage is from repeated use or a bored house pet, any frayed wires should be repaired or replaced ASAP. Exposed wires could heat up and spark when the device is in use. If it’s near anything easily combustible, like a curtain or the carpet, a fire is likely to occur.

5. Overloaded Electrical System

Aside from the wire, your home’s overall electrical system could also be to blame. Depending on its age and the connected home appliances, your system may be too weak to withstand the amount of electrical power it is being asked to generate. Having an electrician examine and update your circuits as necessary is the best way to ensure it doesn’t blow a fuse and cause sparks in the future. 

If there’s been a house fire, Restoration 1 of Greater Las Vegas in Nevada has the experience and the tools for comprehensive fire damage restoration. When they arrive, their trained and certified team will do a complete assessment of the damages and tell you, with utmost transparency, what type of work must be done so you can report to your insurance company. For more information about their process, visit their website. Call (702) 941-6406 for 24/7 assistance.