Each year, hundreds of thousands of homes in America are destroyed by fire. That’s hundreds of thousands of American families whose belongings are burned, memories destroyed and lives completely changed, often just in a matter of minutes. But home fires are also one of the most preventable home disasters. Here are some ways you can prevent fires in your home: 

Clear Clutter Out of the Kitchen  

If pot holders, towels and cookbooks are littering the area around your stove, you could be setting yourself up for a fire hazard. Clutter in cooking spaces makes accidents more likely. Keeping cloth and flammable materials around an open flame can make those accidents even worse. Find an alternative storage spot for your kitchen linens and paper goods and keep them out of reach of any open flames, cooking surfaces or electrical outlets. Exercising caution and safety in the kitchen can also help prevent accidents and fires. Be especially cautious when children are present to avoid serious burns and injuries. 

Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials  

It may come as a surprise to learn that many of the materials used in homes can be extremely flammable. Engineered wood, vinyl siding and gypsum board are all materials commonly used in modern homes, but these modern materials can cause fires to burn faster and hotter. To avoid danger, try choosing solid wood and natural materials for projects around your home. If you update your furnishings, look for fire-resistant fabrics and materials there as well. 

Use Caution With Clothes Dryers  

Washers and dryers make our lives so much more convenient. If these appliances are not properly installed and maintained, however, they can also make fires more likely. Each year, thousands of fires are caused by clogged or improperly installed dryer vents. It’s a hidden fire hazard that is at the root of many of the home fires in America, so make sure your dryer is properly vented. Keep your lint trap clean and inspect the vents on a routine basis. Have a professional help you install your washer and dryer to avoid electrical issues and be aware of these hazardous brands. 

Replace Old or Vintage Appliances  

The washer and dryer are not the only appliances that can cause fires in the home. Many home fires are started by some fairly common home appliances, causing devastation to families. Dishwashers, toasters and microwaves all contain heating elements that can malfunction and lead to major fires. Even your refrigerator can be a fire hazard, if there are problems with the compressor or materials used in construction. If you have any older, vintage or faulty appliances, spending the money on replacements can prevent a fire from destroying your home. 

Take Care of Electrical Problems 

Faulty wiring and worn outlets are another issue that can cause a fire in homes. If you notice any signs of electrical problems in your home, you should take care of them as soon as possible. A licensed electrician can inspect the electrical system in your home and alert you to any possible fire hazards. This is one home project you should never attempt to remedy yourself, since faulty repairs can actually lead to fire, injuries or even death for you or your family members. 

Avoid Smoking Inside Your Home  

Smoking inside the home is a major cause of fire-related injuries. Cigarettes and smoking devices are also a common source for home fires, so take smoking outside. Smokers should step far away from the home and avoid outdoor areas where flammable materials, such as wood, dry plants and grass, are present and connected to the home. Not allowing smoking inside your home will also ensure that smoke detectors are always turned on and able to detect fires before it’s too late. 

Fire can destroy your home and change your family’s lives forever. Take steps to prevent accidents and fire in your home and help protect your family’s health, safety and future.       

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