House fires can destroy homes and cause temporary displacement for families, but many of them are preventable. Homeowners in Feasterville and the surrounding Bucks County area may be wondering how to prevent fires and keep their households safe. Whether you live in a single-family home or an older housing stock, simple steps and actionable tips can prevent fires and ensuing damage.
Cooking Fires: The #1 Risk in the Kitchen
Cooking mishaps are the most common causes of residential fires. Unattended cooking can quickly engulf a kitchen in flames and lead to severe fire damage. When cooking on a stovetop or in an oven, leaving the kitchen even for a short amount of time can lead to a fire. To prevent fires, never leave stoves unattended, keep flammable items away, and install a kitchen fire extinguisher.
Electrical Hazards in Older Homes
Many Feasterville homes are decades old and contain outdated wiring. Aging electrical systems can create safety hazards that put your house at risk of spontaneous combustion. If you think your residence may contain electrical hazards, be on the lookout for flickering lights, overloaded outlets, and frequent breaker trips.
Heating Equipment and Fireplace Safety
Pennsylvania experiences extreme weather conditions during the winter. The freezing temperatures force residents to utilize heating equipment daily. Because of this, the risk of residential fire damage increases. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from space heaters and fireplaces. Clean your chimneys annually, use safety screens, and replace aging heaters.
Dryer Lint and Laundry Room Fires
Laundry room fires are commonly caused by clogged dryer vents. The buildup of lint within a drying machine is a safety hazard that can lead to a residential fire at any moment. To prevent this, clean the lint trap after every use. Invest in annual dryer vent cleanings to ensure trapped lint and debris are removed before clogs lead to a disaster.
Candle Usage and Open Flames
Candles create a cozy, tranquil environment, but they can present fire risks. If candles are left unattended or placed near flammable items, they may quickly lead to a residential fire that decimates your home. To avoid this, never leave candles burning when you leave the room. If you live with children or pets, consider using flameless alternatives.
Smoking Indoors: A Preventable Cause
Indoor smoking is a serious fire hazard. A lit cigar can easily lead to a house fire, especially if it is near flammable materials such as cooking oils, cleaning supplies, and paint thinners. Prevent fires by refraining from smoking inside of your home. Always smoke outside, use a deep, stable ashtray, and soak cigarette butts before throwing them away.
Faulty Appliances and Overused Extension Cords
Appliance malfunctions are a common cause of residential fires. Aging heaters, stoves, and other appliances may malfunction and start fires. To prevent this, replace old appliances and electronics, and avoid improperly using power strips and extension cords. Unplug electronics when not in use and be on the lookout for exposed wiring and frayed cords.
Outdoor Grills and Fire Pits
Many Feasterville homeowners enjoy summer barbecues and backyard fires. Outdoor fires can be a great addition to family gatherings, but they must be closely watched and maintained. To prevent fire hazards, keep grills and fire pits away from siding and overhangs. Never leave open fires unattended, and store fuel and other flammable items in a safe place.
Helping Your Family Stay Safe Year-Round
An important aspect of fire prevention is equipping members of your household with information that will keep them safe during an emergency. Teach children the basics of fire safety and keep fire extinguishers in key areas of your home. Test smoke alarms and immediately replace dead batteries or defective, aging equipment. Practice escape plans so your loved ones understand how to efficiently evacuate the premises in the event of a fire.
A Neighbor You Can Count on When It Matters Most
For years, ServiceMaster TEAM has served the Feasterville community with expert fire damage restoration services. Our technicians are familiar with the local housing styles and climate patterns that may present challenges during the restoration process. If you have recently experienced a residential fire, we are ready to provide compassionate, effective services that restore your home.
Our mobile technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to respond to service requests. Time is of the essence if a home has recently experienced fire damage. We offer timely damage mitigation services that protect your home while we coordinate repairs. From damage assessment to reconstruction, our team will be by your side every step of the restoration process.
In addition to damage mitigation, our technicians provide insurance assistance. Dealing with insurers can be difficult at times, especially if you are still navigating the aftermath of your residential fire. Our fire damage experts can document damage and submit your insurance claim. We help alleviate stress and ensure your claim is processed in a timely manner.
Stay Ahead of the Flames
Fire prevention is a key aspect of maintaining a safe household. Small changes and actionable steps can go a long way toward preventing house fires and protecting your home from severe damage. If fire damage happens to strike your home, know that help is just a call away. Reach out to your local Feasterville restoration experts for fast, compassionate service. Call ServiceMaster TEAM today at 267-493-1424 to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation with a member of our team.