Why Do House Fires Occur? | SERVPRO of South Atlanta

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

Take a look at the most common ways Atlanta house fires can occur.

House fires are extremely dangerous for a multitude of reasons. Not only do they cause significant amounts of damage, but they can also cause injuries and fatalities to those caught in their path—and often, they come about suddenly, requiring a rapid reaction time. Fires are also traumatic events, and can disrupt the lives of everyone in the household. 

Because house fires are so common (totaling nearly 500,000 in 2020), there is a lot of information out there about why they occur. By understanding what causes house fires, it is our hope that it will be much easier to understand how they can be prevented and what hazards to look out for in your own home. 

Why House Fires Happen 

There are a variety of reasons why house fires occur, but today we will be looking at their most common causes so you know what to be aware of. While this list is far from comprehensive, it can help identify things around the home that are potentially hazardous. 

Hazardous Cooking Techniques 

Cooking is the leading cause of house fires year over year, and while many of us likely do it on autopilot, it is important to remember that using any type of heat source can lead to a fire. Simple errors, such as laying a dishcloth too close to a stove or neglecting to clean out the crumb tray of your toaster, can lead to major kitchen fires in an instant. 

Electrical Outlet Overload 

Electricity is a leading cause of fires, and considering how many electronics most people have in their homes, this is no surprise. Plugging too many things into a wall outlet can easily cause overheating, which is why extension cords should always be used with caution. Additionally, frayed cables can cause sparks which can lead to flames, and should be replaced immediately. 

Unattended Candles 

Candles are a staple of most homes, but leaving them unattended can quickly allow flames to spread throughout the home. Always keep flammable objects well away from candles, and never leave them burning if they will be unattended. 

If you have fire damage in your home, SERVPRO of South Atlanta is the team to call. Get in touch with us 24/7 to learn more about our fire restoration services or to report your damages. SERVPRO of South Atlanta is here to help with your residential fire cleanup and restoration needs at (404) 505-1760.