Common Causes of House Fires

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

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Here are top 3 most common causes of house fires as identified by the National Fire Protection Association. 

From 2012-2016, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 8,200 home structure fires that were started by candles per year. These fires caused an annual average of 80 deaths, 770 injuries and $264 million in direct property damage. 

Facts and figures

During the five-year period of 2012-2016:  

Candles 

Candles caused 2% of reported home fires, 3% of home fire deaths, 7% of home fire injuries, and 4% of the direct property damage in home fires. Roughly one-third (37%) of home candle fires started in bedrooms. These fires caused 30% of the associated deaths and 50% of the associated injuries

Falling asleep was a factor in 11% percent of the home candle fires and 21% of the associated deaths.

• On average, 23 home candle fires were reported per day. 
• Three of every five (60%) of home candle fires occurred when some form of combustible material was left or came too close to the candle.
• December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 12% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year.     
• Cooking

What you should know about home cooking safety

• Be on alert! If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don’t use the stove or stovetop.
• Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling, boiling, or broiling food.
• 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.

3. Electrical 

Facts & figures

• In 2012-2016, electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in 35,100 reported home structure fire, on average, per year.
• These fires involved equipment such as wiring, lighting, cords and plugs.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranked first in direct property damage, and third among the major fire causes in the number of home fires, and tied for third in home fire deaths and home fire injuries. 

If a fire does happen, first call the fire department. Once the blaze has been put out you can contact the highly trained professionals at SERVPRO of Coronado / San Diego Bay SW to service your home and repair and restore after a fire damage. Call (619) 435-0365