Orlando, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) — October 6th to the 12th is National Fire Prevention Week! According to the National Fire Protection Association, every 24 seconds, a fire department responds to a fire somewhere in the U.S. Even the simplest things can potentially catch fire. In fact, one family found out the hard way that something we all do could put us at risk. In August a family in Kansas lost their home after turning on their dishwasher and going to bed. Fire officials say dishwashers can overheat and should never be used when you go to bed. So what else are you doing that could potentially cause a fire? home fires
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Always stay in the kitchen when something is on the stove and always use a timer, so you don’t forget to check the oven. Also, don’t place items on your stovetop for storage. The second highest cause is heating. CPSC estimates that heaters were involved in an average of 1,700 fires per year.
“Look to see that it’s UL listed to show that, it’s gone through the proper channels,” said Christina Diaz, Assistant Fire Chief and the Fire Marshal for Seminole County Fire Department.
Also, check your phones. Chief Diaz says one surprising thing, was when a teenager charged a cell phone on the bed and caught fire. Fourteen percent of U.S. citizens admit that they have their smartphone under their pillow when they sleep, which could burst into flames.
“Air all the time around you. Then you have a fuel source as the comforter, the pillowcase, and then you have a heating element,” said Diaz.
Watch out for lithium-ion batteries too. Nationwide there have been 445 lithium-ion battery fires. Cell phones, laptops, kids’ toys like electric cars are some examples.
“If you’re not charging the equipment with the proper wiring, things like that have caused it to be overheated, to explode and then create those fires,” explained Diaz.
Also check your lights and make sure the LED lights you’ve selected are compatible with the fixture. Be sure to buy from reputable manufacturers to ensure they meet safety standards.
Contributors to this news report include: Cliff Tumetel, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor
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Sources:
https://www.thezebra.com/resources/research/house-fire-statistics/
https://www.nfpa.org/about-nfpa/press-room/reporters-guide-to-fire/consequences-of-fire
