House Fire Realities

Before I was a home inspector, I worked for a local restoration company that would go into houses that were previously engulfed in flames and smoke and have to rebuild. These people had just lost their possessions to fire, smoke, and water damage, and they had no say when this was going to happen. They couldn’t put it on a calendar like we do for a home remodel or an organizing purge. They had to face this face on with little to no notice.

There are many ways that a fire can start, but lets talk about a few ways to help prevent one.

1. Make sure that any and all space heaters are plugged into the wall, not a power strip and / or extension cord.
2. Make sure all wires that are wire nutted together are in junction boxes, not stuffed into walls or laying on the attic floor.
3. Make sure your electrical panel is in working order and that nothing is blocking it. I highly recommend having a certified electrical contractor or professional home inspector evaluate the panel and make sure that it nothing is out of place.
4. Make sure your dryer vent is free of build up lint. Have it snaked yearly to help with prevention.
5. Store all flammable items away from heat sources.
6. Clean your oven regularly and be aleart when cooking.
7. Make sure your chimney is free of bird nests and / or debris.
8. Make sure to test your smoke detectors regularly.
9. Make sure to keep clothing and / or blankets away from heat sources.
10. Practice caution with candles. Don’t leave a lit candle unattended.

Here are some safety items to practice as well

1. Change your smoke detector batteries regularly.
2. Sleep with your door closed.
3. Have a fire extinguisher that is up to date and checked regularly.
4. Have an evacuation plan for your family and practice it.
5. Have an escape ladder if you have a home with multiple stories.

For more resources, reach out to your local home inspector or fire station.