ApplianceJournal.com

   When it comes to preventing fires in the home, we usually think of the obvious, such as turning off the stove and oven after cooking.  However, there are several fire hazards that are commonly left unaddressed that you should consider before declaring your home fireproof.  Here are just a few items you may have missed.

Unplugging Items

Any small appliance that’s not currently in use should be unplugged.  This includes personal beauty items such as hair dryers, curling irons, and hot roller kits, as well as small kitchen appliances such as crock-pots, blenders, and toasters.  A short or power surge could easily cause any one of these items to spark and catch fire, making them dangerous items if left plugged into the wall.  Even cell phones and other devices that are regularly charged should be used with caution and chargers unplugged when not in use.

Kitchen Hazards

More than just the stove and oven can cause fires in the home if not handled properly.  First of all, you should never put a metal object in the microwave.  Whether it’s tin foil or an eating utensil, a metal object in the microwave can cause a dangerous explosion that could easily cause injury and will also likely catch other items on fire.  Also, make sure the area around the refrigerator, especially near the cord, are kept dry.  If the cord becomes frayed and gets wet, it could shock someone and is highly likely to cause a fire all on its own.  While you are probably quite careful about turning the oven off after use, additional precautions can be taken, especially if you are going to step out of the house while something is cooking.  A timer function can come in quite handy, especially those with the automatic off capability, so that whether you were there when the meal finished or not, the oven would turn off.

Laundry Room

In the laundry room, you have more possibilities for fires that must be corrected.  The most important point of maintenance for the clothes dryer is the lint filter.  This must be cleaned out on a regular basis; otherwise the high heat levels will cause friction and heat to rise in the tiny particles, which is the number one cause of fire in laundry rooms.  Make sure you clean that filter on a regular basis to prevent clogging.  Also, refrain from leaving your washer and dryer (and even your dishwasher) from running when you leave the house whenever possible.  A short could happen any time, and if you aren’t there to catch it immediately, the fire hazard is too great.

Electronic Appliances and Ventilation

Aside from the need for surge protectors to protect your electronics, there are other considerations to reduce the possibility of an electrical fire.  The most important aspect is the need for ventilation.  You’ll notice that most electronic devices have “speakers”, which are actually ventilation ducts to help disperse the built up heat within.  Blocking these vents by stacking devices could easily cause something to overheat, melt, and even catch fire.  Make sure that, if you do stack devices, all vents are clear for breathing.

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