Bad Habits That Could Burn Your House Down

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Fire is quick and can happen to anyone. Keep reading to find out what bad habits can cause fire damage in your home.

Disregarding Dust

Built-up dust can be a fire hazard if it collects in and around electronics, electrical sockets, and even floor heaters. Dust your electronics regularly. 

Misusing Electric Blankets

Never allow pets to snuggle up on top, and don't pile extra covers over the electric blanket, because excessive heat buildup may lead to a fire. Keep your electric blanket at its lowest setting, never bend the coils, and always turn it off in the morning.

Neglecting Appliance Recalls

To keep on top of recalls and prevent disaster in your home, register your appliance with the manufacturer or go to www.recalls.gov to find out if any of your models are on the list.

Dryer Lint

Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct regularly, as well as the interior of the dryer frame, to clear away lint and clogs, and reduce the risk of fire.

Letting Your Laptop Overheat

When you leave your computer on your bed, couch, rug, or other soft, flammable surface, you run the risk of restricting airflow through the cooling vents, which can cause your laptop to overheat and possibly catch fire.

Choosing the Wrong Wattage

Installing a light bulb with a wattage that is too high for a lamp or light fixture is a leading cause of electrical fires. Always check the light fixture’s maximum wattage, and never go over the recommended rating.

Ignoring Uninvited Guests

Mice and other rodents like to gnaw on electrical wires. Over time, they can remove the sheathing, leaving the wires exposed. Unfortunately, the electric current that travels through the wire generates heat, and in the absence of sheathing, this could lead to sparks caused by short circuits, which in turn could ignite the surrounding surfaces. 

Leaving Candles Unattended

While you’re away, animals could knock the flame over, or a draft could cause the flame to flare up and ignite nearby flammable items. Always keep lit candles in sight and out of reach of pets, children, or flammables like drapes. 

If you are experiencing fire damage please call SERVPRO of Southeast El Paso/Butterfield 24/7!