Did you know that it is National Fire Prevention Week?
It is observed each year during the week of October 9th, in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire which began on October 8, 1871.
Every 24 seconds, a fire department in the United States responds to a fire somewhere in the nation. Although the number of fires and fire deaths have decreased significantly since the 1970’s, some statistics are more troubling. Learn more below about the top causes of home fires and how to prevent them, based on some tips from the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA).
Cooking
Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home injuries, and the leading cause of fires in the kitchen is unattended cooking.
- If you are simmering, baking, or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the kitchen while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.
- Keep anything that can catch fire — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels or curtains — away from your stovetop.
Heating Systems
Heating equipment is another leading cause of fires in U.S. homes. Local fire departments responded to an estimated average of 52,050 fires involving heating equipment each year in 2012-2016, accounting for 15% of all reported home fires during this time.
- Install smoke alarms in every bedroom. They should also be outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Install alarms in the basement.
- Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
- Clean equipment and chimneys. The leading factor contributing to home heating fires (27%) was failure to clean, principally from solid-fueled heating equipment, primarily chimneys.
Electrical
In 2014-2018, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in an estimated average of roughly 34,000 reported home structure fires per year. Wiring and related equipment accounted for seven percent of all home fires and nine percent of all home fire deaths.
- To help reduce your risk, NFPA recommends that you have all electrical work done by a qualified electrician, including electrical inspections, when buying or remodeling a home.
Learn More
One of the most important aspects of recovering benefits after a burn from a fire at home, or even in the workplace, is knowing which options are available. An attorney can help investigate to better understand how the fire started and can help you explore which options may be available to recover benefits or damages. Contact us at 215-642-2335 or www.cordiscosaile.com for more information.
