According to the National Fire Protection Association, cooking is the leading cause of residential fires. When you cook, one of the worst things you can do is leave food unattended, especially while you’re using the stove. 63 percent of home fires begin there, with frying taking the lead as the cooking style that most frequently leads to fire. Oil splatters while frying can quickly cause a fire, so keep the heat at a safe, manageable level. Stay in the kitchen at all times while you’re cooking, set a timer when you bake or broil food in the oven, and keep items like towels and oven mitts away from the stove.

If you rely on space heaters for extra heat in your home or enjoy using a fireplace, ensure you’re taking the proper precautions before each use. Unfortunately, heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. Portable heaters should be kept away from flammable items such as bedding, mattresses, and furniture. Blunders like this are responsible for 54 percent of home fire deaths. For your fireplace, have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually by a professional.

Smoking not only endangers your health, but also your home. 40 percent of smoking-related fires begin in the bedroom, and 35 percent begin in the living room. Smoking-related home fires often begin when a partially lit cigarette comes in contact with furniture, garbage, or mattresses/bedding. It can ignite in no time at all, and the ensuing blaze can claim lives. Make sure your cigarette is completely put out before you go to bed; run it under water if you have to.

If you experience a home fire in Central Houston, know that you have a team ready 24/7 to perform thorough fire damage restoration. Call us at Restoration 1 of Central Houston whenever you need us.