According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2014, 1,298,000 fires were reported in the United States. These fires resulted in 3,275 deaths, 15,775 injuries and property damage that cost $11.6 billion. Out of the 1, 298,000 fires, 494,000 were structure fires which killed 2,860 civilians, caused 13,425 injuries and cost $9.8 billion in property damage. There were 193,500 vehicle fires and 610,500 outside and other fires. At least one fire in a residential premises was reported every 86 seconds with one report of civilian fire injury every 33 minutes. 84% of all fire deaths are caused by home fires. One of the scariest and most devastating things that could happen is a home fire. It is important to take fire safety seriously in order to avoid losing your loved ones as well as your home and possessions.
Tips to Prevent Home Fires and Keep your Home and Family Safe
Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind to prevent fire in your home:
- Be careful when cooking – It is an undeniable fact that most people are not careful enough when they are cooking. This is the leading cause of home fires. One of the biggest dangers is the combination of unattended cooking and hot splashing grease. Hot grease can burn into flames in an instant. So it is important to make sure that you are always present to be present and make sure that grease does not splash. Also, make sure that you keep flammable paper towels, dish towels or pot holders away from the stove.
- Keep heating equipment well maintained – Each year, many fires start due to heating equipment that are not properly maintained. You should make sure that your home heating utilities are properly inspected and cleaned every year to ensure that they are in good working condition. You should also remember to include your fireplace and chimney. When not used properly, portable heaters are highly dangerous as well. You should make sure that you keep them at least 3 feet away from flammables such as bed sheets, curtains, and never dry clothes on them. Lastly, make sure that you unplug them every time you leave your home.
- Keep an eye on electrical equipment – Although electrical equipment make our lives a whole lot easier, they can be extremely dangerous if you are not careful. It is important to make sure that you always keep a close watch on your electrical equipment.
- Make sure that you do not use faulty equipment.
- Always keep an eye out for frayed or torn wires or cords.
- Do not run cords under carpets or furniture.
You should also make sure that any electrical repairs or maintenance work in your home is always done by an experienced professional.
- Be cautious when using candles – Candles are used in every home and while they are beautiful and smell great, they can be extremely dangerous. The most common reason that candles start fires is because they are placed too close to flammables. Always make sure that you use sturdy candle holders and extinguish them all before you leave the house or go to bed.
RMFW Law has Climbed every Legal Mountain
If you or a loved one has been in a fire accident due to someone else’s negligence, you should seek the help of a personal injury lawyer at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. Give us a call. The first meeting is free. You have nothing to lose. We know how to win cases. We have been winning cases for years and years and the millions and millions of dollars we have compiled for past clients is incredible. RMFW Law knows how to get the job done and our sterling track record exemplifies this.
