You might not consider a fire extinguisher to be an essential household tool, but they provide critical protection in emergencies. More than a quarter of all reported fires take place in homes and cause significant amounts of damage. Being prepared means knowing where fires are likely to start and having the equipment to control them.

What Are Common Fire Hazards?

1. Cooking

In the five-year period between 2013 and 2017, cooking fires accounted for nearly half of all house fires. There are a number of cooking-related dangers that can lead to a kitchen fire, including burned pots and pans, overheated cooking oil or grease, fat deposits in ducts, and open burner flames igniting nearby objects. Every kitchen should have at least one fire extinguisher in a central location, and each person in the household should know how to use it.

2. Electricity

Faulty electrical wiring or lighting is the third-leading cause of fires in the home. These fires most often result from electrical resistance in old, kinked, or frayed wires, which produces an electrical arc that sparks a fire. They can occur with any bad wire or power cord, including those for large and small appliances, phone chargers, and light fixtures. Check that all cords are in prime shape and uncoiled. If you have an older home, have an electrician update the wiring as necessary.

3. Heating

Heating equipment poses a serious fire risk as well. Space heaters are especially dangerous. They can easily overheat or short out, emitting flames that then quickly engulf a room. Old or poorly maintained furnaces can spark fires, too, producing highly flammable natural gas. To prevent either of these scenarios, monitor your space heater use, and have your furnace inspected by an HVAC professional at least once a year.

Keeping a fire extinguisher handy will reduce the chances of a fire breaking out in your home. Accel Fire Systems, Inc., has been serving the Anchorage, AK, area for over 20 years. They offer fire extinguishers and other fire protection system services, including sprinklers and backflow testing. They work with homes and businesses to install and maintain the most effective fire suppression services. Call (907) 349-1490 or visit their website to request a quote.