Buzz
The National Fire Protection Association reports that home fires in the U.S. decreased by 51% in 2020 compared to 1980. While this is a positive trend, it’s still not sufficient—approximately 356,500 home fires occur annually in the U.S. To ensure your home doesn’t fall victim to flames, I consulted retired California firefighter Bill Jurewich, who shared the top seven fire-preparedness mistakes people commonly make.
Risky cooking habits
Cooking-related incidents are the primary cause of home fires—almost 50% of all residential fires originate in the kitchen. While the simplest advice is to avoid using your kitchen altogether, if that’s impractical, start by never leaving a lit stove unattended. Always monitor your cooking, even on low heat. Keep flammable items like dishtowels and decorations away from heat sources. Regularly clean appliances to prevent grease or food buildup from igniting. Avoid cooking under the influence of alcohol, fatigue, or drugs like PCP.
Bill Jurewich offers a unique kitchen-fire prevention tip: “Many people store items in their ovens and forget to check before preheating,” he explained. “Avoid storing anything in your oven and always ensure it’s empty before turning it on.”
Neglecting to clean your dryer’s lint trap
FEMA reports that nearly 3,000 fires each year in the U.S. are caused by clothes dryers. Lint is highly flammable—so much so that camping enthusiasts often use it as kindling. Combine this with the heat generated by dryers, and the risk becomes clear.
While most lint is caught in the lint filter, which should be cleaned after every use, it’s also crucial to clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct at least annually. Don’t forget to clean behind the machine as well. Additionally, avoid drying flammable materials like foam, rubber, plastic, or items contaminated with substances such as grease, gasoline, or cooking oil.
Failing to maintain your smoke alarms
While everyone knows smoke alarms are essential, their placement is equally critical. “Ensure they’re positioned to provide ample warning,” advises Jurewich. A general guideline is to install one on every floor, in each bedroom, and in hallways. However, since every home is unique, consulting your local fire department for tailored advice is recommended.
Maintaining smoke detectors is just as important as installing them. Don’t wait for the low-battery chirp to replace the batteries. “Change your smoke alarm batteries when you adjust your clocks [for Daylight Saving Time],” Jurewich suggests.
Regularly dust or vacuum your detectors to prevent dirt from obstructing the sensors. Additionally, replace the entire unit every ten years. Periodically test your smoke detectors using the “test” button to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
Neglecting your electrical wiring
Faulty wiring is another common yet preventable cause of house fires. Frequent blown fuses or dimming lights when using high-power appliances are signs that your wiring needs inspection. Beyond in-wall wiring, damaged or aging electrical cords can also spark fires. Avoid overloading outlets by using power strips with surge protectors for multiple devices.
Pay close attention to your extension cords. “If they’re crushed or pinched in a doorway, they become a serious hazard,” Jurewich warns. “Placing them in high-traffic areas is a bad idea. And those old, brown extension cords from our childhood? They’re unreliable—toss them out.”
Using hazardous appliances
Older or poorly maintained appliances can be fire hazards, but even well-maintained ones, especially heat-producing devices like space heaters, pose risks. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure regular servicing or replacement of your appliances.
“One appliance people often overlook is the bathroom exhaust fan,” Jurewich notes. “It gets heavy use but rarely any maintenance. If it starts making unusual noises, it’s likely time for a replacement.”
Leaving burning candles unattended
While it might seem obvious to avoid leaving lit candles unattended, Jurewich highlighted an often-overlooked risk: incense. “Lighting an incense cone in the bathroom and walking away might seem harmless, but if a pet knocks it over near flammable items like towels or tissue, it can quickly become dangerous. Never leave anything smoldering unattended,” he advises.
Failing to create an escape plan
Even with all the fire prevention measures in place, accidents can still happen. It’s crucial to have a well-practiced escape plan to ensure everyone in your household can exit safely during a fire. This is especially vital for families with children, as regular drills can reduce panic. For detailed guidance, refer to the National Fire Protection Association’s recommendations on creating a fire escape strategy.
