Common causes of residential fires in Dallas and how to prevent them

There are numerous perils you have to consider as a homeowner. Fire is chief among them, as it can happen in various places and at any time. The U.S. Fire Administration approximated an incredible $8.9 billion in property damage throughout the United States because of residential fires in 2021. Also during this year, there were more than 350,000 noted incidents. Luckily, there are things you can do to stay clear of them. Take a look at the causes and how to prevent house fires in Dallas.

What sparks residential fires in Dallas?

Fires can sprout up anywhere and without warning, whether sparked by a smoldering cigarette in a trash can or a neglected stovetop. Here are the leading causes of residential fires.

• Cooking: Flare-ups in the kitchen are the most frequent sorts of residential fires in Dallas and everywhere else. Neglected stovetops are the chief source, so always keep an eye on that hot skillet when making dinner. It’s also essential to note that dumping water on a grease fire will only worsen the situation.
• Heating: Space heaters are a well-known cause of residential fires. Using them for too long can result in inner elements breaking down and sparking. Placing heaters by flammable textiles like bed sheets and curtains or using frayed cords can also lead to disastrous results. Other heating elements, such as furnaces and fireplaces, might cause fires and should be checked periodically.
• Electrical: Outdated wiring, defective outlets, and overloaded extension cords are some ways electrical problems lead to fires. Never use an appliance with a frayed cord, and ensure combustible materials like paper aren’t layed on top of a lampshade, get it inspected promptly.
• Candles: Wherever there's a flame, there's the possibility of fire. Residential fires due to candles are still commonplace and typically result from carelessness. Burning candles too close to combustible objects like drapery or leaving them within range of a rambunctious pet will often produce disastrous results.
• Smoking: Despite the overall decrease in smoking across the nation, it’s still an unquestionable fire hazard. The U.S. Fire Administration estimated that 7,800 residential fires were started by smoking in 2021. Nodding off with a cigarette in hand or prematurely throwing out smoldering ashes can cause catastrophic results.

The most effective way to prevent house fires in Dallas is to be attentive at all times. Always keep an eye on things when cooking, never leave a candle burning, and properly get rid of cigarettes. If you must operate a space heater, do so in short intervals and get one that has an automatic shut-off safety precaution in case it is knocked over.

Protect your family with a monitored fire alarm in Dallas

You should have smoke detectors on all floors and consider using more near bedrooms. But you can take your home’s safety to a new level with a monitored fire alarm. These beneficial safety components will not only detect smoke but can also trigger due to rising heat. Furthermore, because they incorporate into your modern smart home, they’ll notify you and your monitoring representatives whenever an emergency occurs. This is a nice perk, specifically when you’re not home to hear the alarm and call the fire department yourself.

Defend against known threats with a Vivint smart home in Dallas

Enhance the protection of your residence today with a Vivint smart home. You may customize our systems with monitored fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and water sensors. You’ll be appreciative of the instant alerts to your mobile device and the peace of mind that you enjoy with professional monitoring. Dial (469) 812-8953 to talk with a Vivint representative.