Whether you’re new to Bryan-College Station or you’ve been living in this part of Texas for a while, it’s essential to learn about everyday occurrences in your neighborhood and city. House fires are important to pay attention to while living in South-Eastern Texas, as everything from appliances to lighting can spark problems. Once you’ve invested in fire insurance, review these common household fire hazards and learn the best practices for preventing house fires.
Fire Insurance for Your Bryan-College Station Home
Even if you do everything you can to prevent home fires, accidents can happen when you least expect them. One of your first moves after buying a new house should be investing in fire insurance, so you can live comfortably in Bryan-College Station knowing that your property is protected. Once you’re covered with fire insurance that suits your budget and lifestyle, you can take the precautions outlined below to avoid a fire damage in your home. You also have the option to go the extra mile and carry out a home inspection prior to buying a new place to control for fire hazards before you move in.
8 Biggest Causes of Home Fires in Bryan-College Station
Here are the 8 biggest causes of home fires in Bryan-College Station with a number of fire safety tips geared toward keeping homes in this part of Texas safe and sound.
Cooking Equipment
Cooking equipment is one of the culprits behind home fires. Overheating pots and pans, especially ones left unattended, can be quite flammable. In order to practice safe cooking habits, stay in the room while your food is on the burner. Also keep flammable items like paper towels, oven mitts and dish towels away from the stove.
Appliances
Appliances are a second cause behind house fires. Electric appliances like toasters can malfunction, over use electricity and wear out unexpectedly. Because frayed cords, water leaks and more create problems with your appliances, check them for warning signs. Lastly, be sure to keep them up-to-date to offset potential fire hazards.
Children
Children are a third explanation behind home fires. Curiosity can lead to open flames from matches and lighters. Luckily it’s easy to put these gadgets out of reach. Take an extra step of precaution by creating an escape plan for you and your family, and practice it twice a year to encourage fire safety.
Smoking
Smoking is a fourth element to consider in house fires. Cigarettes and cigarette butts can cause furniture, clothes and more to catch on fire. If quitting smoking is too large of a feat, opt for large, deep ashtrays and make sure to always extinguish your cigarettes.
Heating
Heating is a fifth origin of home fires. Built-in and portable heaters can become hot enough to melt and burn nearby objects. If you happen to need a heater during the winter months, keep furniture, curtains and linens away from it. Also, make sure the system is working properly by testing it first.
Wiring
Wiring is a sixth root of house fires. Old wires, electrical issues and water leaks can administer sparks that lead to open flames. Whether you’ve invested in a house or condo, hire an electrician or check in with your landlord regularly to make sure your wires are in working order.
Lighting
Lighting is a seventh source for home fires. Lamp shades and light fittings encompass bulbs that can overheat. When you’re using artificial light sources in your home, set lamp bases where they won’t get knocked over. Be sure to turn them off when they get too hot.
Candles
Candles are an eighth cause of house fires. They’re often set up near flammable items and left unattended. For the moments when you want a nice ambiance and a sweet scent, keep kids and pets away from lit candles. Be sure to blow them out before leaving the room. And remember to cut long wicks and keep flammable objects away from lit candles.
Next Steps
The 8 biggest causes of home fires in Bryan-College Station are important to have top of mind when creating a safe living environment for you and your loved ones. Because everyday items like cooking equipment and candles can lead to disastrous fires when left unattended, it’s best to stay alert and do everything you can to avoid accidents in and around your home. Check out our helpful list of insurance companies to find the right agent for your home protection needs. If you have any questions about these common causes of home fires or fire safety tips for your home in general, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Brazos County Realty today.