Only you can prevent forest fires, but what about laptops-in-your-bed fires? You can avoid those too - by knowing these 5 everyday objects that cause fires.
Laptops in Bed
I’m guilty of watching Netflix before bed, specifically while in bed with my laptop. But after a news story broke about a laptop left unguarded in bed for 16 hours that burned down a whole building, I never wanted to risk nodding off with a fire hazard in my lap again.
Since most laptops ventilate from fans on the bottom of the machine, it’s a good idea to elevate your computer to allow airflow. Not only will it avoid uncomfortable heat, but also dangerous accidents.
Dryer Lint
Another surprising fire-starter can be found in the dryer. Lint that wasn’t emptied (to the annoyance of the next user) often prevents the next batch of clothes from drying but can also start a fire. Leftover lint causes a reported 15,000 fires a year and should be taken seriously.
Next laundry day, remember to empty the lint trap for your clothes and your safety.
Clutter in the Closet
Cleaning out your closet doesn’t just mean you’re starting a new way of life. It means you’re starting a new habit to avoid unintentional fires.
12% of house fires start in a closet, so if you have a closet that is stacked from floor to ceiling with junk, it’s time to let the fresh air in. Closet fires often begin when stored items touch a bare light bulb and catch fire. Whether or not it’s the season for spring-cleaning, get an early (or belated) start by reorganizing your closet and donating some old clothes.
9 Volt Batteries
There are probably some 9 volt batteries cluttered somewhere in my house. I image they’re resting peacefully, forgotten in a junk drawer or two. Dead batteries or alive ones should be treated equally and with care since fires caused by 9 volt batteries are on the rise.
Because 9 volt batteries can cause a spark if they touch something conductive, and that spark can start a fire if it lands on something flammable, in a junk drawer or trash can, always keep unused batteries in their original containers or wrap dead ones in electric tape before you toss them.
Batteries also require special recycling, so pick a drop off spot where you’ll likely get in the habit of recycling old batteries instead of hording them. You can find nearby recycling spots for batteries by clicking here.
Cooking Fires
Last, but certainly not the least dangerous, cooking is the number one cause of home fires. Thanksgiving is the most common day for home cooking fires, but that doesn’t mean other days are less flammable.
If you love to cook, your brain may be focused on the food but not always mindful of the ignition source on your grill or stove top, which is responsible for two-thirds of cooking fires. Always turn off burners when they’re no longer needed. It’s easy to forget burners if they’re left on a low setting, but triple check after cooking and before leaving the house. I literally do this every day.
With the exception of home cooking, this list covers some surprising culprits for fire hazards but there are plenty of others just waiting to cause a freak accident. Where there’s heat or open flames, there’s risk for fire, so take proper precautions and follow our blog for more tips on protection and insurance!
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