Fires often start from everyday habits and routines that we don’t give a second thought to. While these behaviours may seem harmless, they can create significant fire hazards in your home if not addressed. By understanding these risks and making small but impactful changes, you can keep your home and family safe. Below, we’ll explore ten common habits that unknowingly increase fire risks and offer practical ways to prevent them.
1. Leaving Appliances Plugged In
Many people leave small appliances, like toasters, kettles, or coffee machines, plugged in even when not in use. Over time, these appliances can overheat or malfunction, creating a fire risk. Chargers for phones, laptops, and other devices are also often left plugged in indefinitely, increasing the chance of electrical issues. To minimise this risk, unplug appliances and chargers when they’re not actively in use. Using smart plugs with timers can be a convenient way to automatically cut power to devices after a set time, reducing both fire hazards and electricity consumption.
2. Overloading Sockets and Extension Leads
Plugging too many devices into one socket is a common habit that can lead to overheating and electrical fires. High-wattage appliances, like heaters or hairdryers, are particularly problematic when combined with other devices on the same extension lead. Daisy-chaining multiple extension cords is another dangerous practice, as it can quickly exceed the electrical capacity of your outlets. To avoid these risks, use one plug per socket wherever possible, and make sure the total wattage of devices on an extension lead stays within the manufacturer’s limit. If you find your outlets are frequently overused, consider having additional sockets installed by a qualified electrician.
3. Neglecting Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are your first line of defence against house fires, yet many people neglect their maintenance. Alarms with dead batteries, outdated models, or those removed due to false triggers leave your home vulnerable. It’s crucial to test your smoke alarms monthly and replace their batteries annually. Alarms should be installed in hallways, near bedrooms, and on every floor of your home. For added reliability, consider upgrading to interconnected or long-life smoke alarms that provide comprehensive coverage and minimal upkeep.
4. Leaving Cooking Unattended
The kitchen is one of the most common locations for house fires, often because cooking is left unattended. Frying, grilling, or boiling food requires constant attention, as high heat can quickly ignite grease or food spills. Walking away from the stove, even briefly, increases the risk of a fire starting unnoticed. To stay safe, always remain in the kitchen while cooking. If you need to step away, turn off the heat or set a timer to remind yourself to return. Keeping flammable items like tea towels and paper towels away from the hob is another simple but effective precaution.
5. Using Faulty or Frayed Electrical Cables
Damaged electrical cables are a hidden fire hazard in many homes. Over time, cables for chargers, appliances, and lamps can develop frayed or exposed wires, which may cause sparks or short circuits. Continuing to use damaged cords increases the likelihood of a fire. To prevent this, replace cables at the first sign of wear and avoid bending or pinching them during use or storage. Regularly inspecting your cords and storing them neatly can prolong their lifespan and reduce fire risks.
6. Leaving Candles Unattended
Candles create a cosy atmosphere, but leaving them unattended is a leading cause of house fires. A small flame can quickly ignite nearby flammable materials such as curtains, furniture, or papers. Always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed. Use sturdy, heat-resistant candle holders and place them on flat, non-flammable surfaces. For an even safer alternative, consider switching to flameless LED candles, which mimic the warm glow of real candles without the risk of fire.
7. Drying Clothes Too Close to Heaters
In the colder months, it’s tempting to dry clothes on or near heaters. However, placing damp clothing too close to a portable heater or radiator significantly increases the risk of fire. Heat can cause fabrics to ignite, especially when using electric heaters. Always keep drying racks at least one metre away from heaters and avoid draping clothes directly over them. If space is an issue, consider using a tumble dryer or a designated drying area away from heat sources.
8. Ignoring Chimney Maintenance
For homes with fireplaces or wood-burning stoves, neglecting chimney maintenance is a common but dangerous oversight. Over time, creosote—a highly flammable residue—can build up inside chimneys, increasing the risk of chimney fires. Blockages from debris or nests can also pose hazards. To keep your chimney safe, have it professionally cleaned at least once a year. Using only seasoned, dry wood reduces creosote build-up and ensures safer, cleaner burns.
9. Storing Flammable Materials Unsafely
Many households store flammable items, like cleaning products, paints, or aerosols, near heat sources or in poorly ventilated areas. This creates a significant fire risk, especially if these materials are accidentally exposed to high temperatures. Store flammable items in cool, ventilated spaces away from heaters, stoves, or direct sunlight. Use clearly labelled, approved containers with secure lids to prevent leaks and spills. For petrol or other fuels, always follow the manufacturer’s storage guidelines.
10. Using the Wrong Light Bulbs
Installing light bulbs with a wattage higher than what the fixture is rated for can cause overheating and fires. This issue is especially common in older fixtures or when people replace bulbs without checking the wattage limit. To stay safe, always check the maximum wattage indicated on your fixtures and use bulbs that meet this requirement. Switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs can further reduce heat output and fire risks.
Prevention is Key
Fire safety begins with awareness and small adjustments to your daily habits. By addressing these common fire risks, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire and protect your home and family. Regularly inspecting your home for potential hazards and taking simple preventative measures can make a big difference.
For professional fire safety advice or assistance, contact Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy. A few proactive steps now can save lives and property in the future.