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Why Home Fires Increase in the Winter | SERVPRO® of Alamo Heights

12/10/2019 (Permalink)

When the temperatures begin dropping, the likelihood of a house fire occurring begins to rise.

Home fires can occur for a variety of reasons, but it is important to be aware of the risks that are especially likely in the winter months in order to keep your family safer during the shorter days ahead. It is important to know the reasons why home fires increase in the winter as well as ways to prevent fires, both in the wintertime and year-round.

Reasons for Increased Home Fires in the Winter

An Increase in Cooking
Cooking—something most of us do every day—is consistently the top cause of home fires across the country, and this is not something that changes in the winter. In fact, it typically rises even more due to an increase in baking and general stove usage around the holidays.

The Risk of Heaters
Heating-related issues are the second-highest cause of house fires, with space heaters being the most common culprit. These fires are typically from flammable objects being too close to the heating source or a space heater tipping over when it is not equipped with an automatic shutoff.

Candles and Decorations
Anywhere there is an open flame there is an opportunity for a house fire to begin, which is why the use of decorative and religious candles can also lead to an uptick in house fires. Winter decorations can also be hazardous, with strings of lights and other electronics that are not frequently used being major culprits for fires.

Ways to Prevent Wintertime Fires

When it comes to house fires, practicing prevention is the best way to be prepared. Here are some general fire safety tips to remember year-round, but especially during the winter:

  • Check smoke alarms once every 30 days and replace every 10 years.
  • Always monitor open flames.
  • Select space heaters with automatic shut-offs in case they tip over.
  • Utilize a screen every time you use a fireplace.
  • Draft and practice an emergency escape plan with your household.

If your home has been impacted by a fire, call us right away. We are leaders in restoration and can help you recover quickly after a fire occurs.

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