- According to the US Fire Administration, residential fires result in billions of dollars in damages each year, with the primary causes being electrical malfunctions.
- In 2022 alone, residential fire damages exceeded $18.1 billion, affecting thousands of families across the country.
- Open flames were the third costliest source of fire damage in the US, with over $904.4 billion in damage in 2022.
With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, Joel Efosa, CEO of a real estate company that specializes in fire damage Fire Cash Buyer, highlights the most common causes of fire damage and offers seven top tips to keep your home safe this season.
Estimated fire losses by top causes, 2022
|
Cause |
Estimated dollars loss |
|
Other including carelessness |
$2,289,200,000 |
|
Electrical malfunction |
$1,492,400,000 |
|
Open flame |
$904,400,000 |
|
Heating |
$564,600,000 |
|
Smoking |
$525,700,000 |
|
Exposure |
$513,700,000 |
1. Avoid overloading outlets
Electrical malfunctions are among the top fire hazards, especially during the holiday season. Overloading outlets with multiple light strands, decorations, or power-hungry devices increases the risk of overheating and can lead to short circuits or electrical fires. To minimize this risk, try to distribute your decorations across multiple outlets throughout the space. Additionally, use surge protectors if you know you’re going to need to plug lots in.
2. Keep candles away from flammable decorations
Efosa points out that open flames are a major cause of fire damage, with over $904.4 million lost in 2022 due to fire incidents from open flames. Candles add a festive touch, but they must be kept far from any flammable materials. Never leave candles unattended, and always place them away from anything that could ignite.
3. Use heating equipment safely
Winter’s chill often leads to using additional heating equipment, like space heaters or heated blankets. Always read instructions before use and keep heaters at least three feet away from flammable objects like curtains, furniture, and Christmas trees. Never leave heating equipment unattended, and make sure to turn off space heaters and unplug heated blankets before bed or leaving the room.
4. Turn off lights and decorations before bed
Turning off unnecessary lights and decorations before bed or leaving the house not only reduces fire risk but can also help save on electricity costs. Unplugging these items helps prevent electrical malfunctions and is one small simple thing you can do to protect your home.
5. Check lights for fraying and use indoor lights only indoors
Christmas lights add charm, but safety is essential. Ensure all lights are in good condition before use, and only use indoor lights inside your home as they aren’t designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Whether old or new, check all lights for damage. LED lights are a safer option as they emit less heat, reducing fire risks for nearby decorations.
6. Stay vigilant in the kitchen during holiday cooking
With holiday feasts come busy kitchens. Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking, as this can be a major fire risk. Avoid overloading outlets with cooking equipment and stay focused on cooking tasks. While it’s tempting to enjoy a holiday drink while cooking, minimize alcohol intake to maintain full attention.
7. Keep your Christmas tree hydrated and avoid overloading with lights
Real Christmas trees can be fire hazards, especially when dry. Keeping your tree well-watered helps slow the burn rate in case of a fire. Avoid overloading the tree with lights too as connecting too many strands can increase fire risk, so always check the recommended limits.
Ultimately, the expert from Fire Cash Buyer reminds us that the holiday season brings additional fire hazards. Regularly inspect all equipment, limit open flames, and keep safety in mind to ensure a safe and joyful season.