SERVPRO recommends fire safety tips that homeowners can follow for common electrical appliances

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog dives into fire safety tips that homeowners can follow to prevent home appliances from malfunctioning and causing fires. 

Fire safety tips for 7 home appliances

According to the NFPA, electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of electrical home fires in 2015–2019 accounting for 13% of home structure fires. As homes become more comfortable with advanced technology and appliances, the risk of electrical fire also increases. SERVPRO, a fire damage restoration company in Hurst-Euless-Bedford, shares some important tips to prevent electrical fires in homes due to malfunctioning appliances. 

All electrical appliances must be regularly maintained and inspected, placed in an appropriate location, powered adequately, and used carefully. Here are some safety tips for 7 common appliances:

1. Washing Machine 

• Connect and ground the washing machine properly.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s operating instruction manual.
• Do not overload the washing machine.
• Take care of the plastic components on the interior of the door that release the detergent. This helps prevent the water from leaking over the machine’s internal wires, which can cause a fire.
• Dry the clothes that have come in contact with flammable substances, such as gasoline or paint thinner, before loading them into the machine.

2. Clothes Dryer

• Ground the dryer and clear the vicinity of combustible substances.
• Use a lint filter regularly and clean the lint from the screen and around the drum before or after each use. Clean the lint from the vent pipe once a year. Clothes taking too long to dry is an indication that vent cleaning is needed.
• Vent the dryers outside using rigid or semi-rigid metal venting materials. 
• Opt for metal vent pipes to ensure proper airflow.
• Hire professionals to inspect gas dryers regularly.

3. Electric or Gas Ranges

• Clean all the grease and flammable residues from the burner, stovetop, or oven. 
• Keep all combustible items away from ovens.
• Never leave the cooking range unattended. Switch it off when leaving the kitchen.
• Protect oneself by rolling up sleeves, tying long hair, and wearing non-slip footwear when cooking.
• In case of a smell of gas inside the oven or near it, open a window and call a professional immediately.
• Safely connect the oven and the hood.
• Install safety devices such as stove safety guards, stove knob stops, and stove locking straps.
• Use a powder fire extinguisher, baking soda, salt, or wet rags to douse a grease fire. Water can make the fire worse and uncontrollable.

4. Refrigerator

• The fridge must be powered as safely and efficiently as possible.
• Inspect the power cord and electrical outlet for wear and tear.
• Clean the back of the fridge or freezer regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt at the back of the appliance.

5. Dishwasher

• Never leave the dishwasher switched on and unattended. 
• Use a grounded wall socket to power the dishwasher.
• Inspect the plastic components that release the detergent on the interior of the door for any damage. 

6. Electric Heater

• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable materials like paper, drapes, or carpet.
• Place heaters on a stable, horizontal surface. 
• Keep heaters away from water and wet areas. 
• An overheated cord, plug, and wall outlet of a heater must be unplugged immediately and inspected by a professional.
• Don’t leave a heater unattended, especially with kids and pets as they may knock it down or get accidentally burnt.

7. Microwave Oven

• Never use aluminum foil or metal in a microwave oven, as they can cause fire. 
• Avoid using microwaves for drying or sterilizing baby bottles, clothes, or blankets.
• Clean the food debris, grease, or stains regularly from the microwave and its outer edge.

To ensure electrical fire safety, homeowners can register newly bought appliances on the manufacturer’s website thereby ensuring regular safety information and updates about the household appliance. These safety tips can help prevent appliance fires and protect the house and its inhabitants. For fire restoration services, homeowners can call the SERVPRO team to restore the house to its original glory.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Hurst, Euless, Bedford, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For fire damage restoration services, call contact Team Shaw of SERVPRO of Hurst-Euless-Bedford today at (817) 595-0004 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com