Homes today are equipped with several advanced technologies and equipment, which provide convenience to homeowners. From washing the dishes to cleaning the entire house, everything became easy because of these machines. However, all gas and electrical-operated machines can pose fire hazards in a home. Most homeowners invested thousands of dollars in home appliances. Thus, it is important to take ways to protect your investment and avoid dealing with appliance fire. Keep reading to learn the essential fire safety tips to reduce the risk of appliance fires at home. 

Appliance Fire Safety Tips at Home

Appliance fires can be prevented with simple precautionary steps. Just keeping your appliances in good working condition and using them properly can protect yourself and your family from a disaster.  

Clothes Dryer Fire Safety Tips

• Never use a drier without a lint filter. Always clean the lint filter before and after you use it and remove the lint that has accumulated around the drum.
• Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the vent flap opens when the dryer operates.
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of the things that can burn. 
• If drying clothes take longer than normal, you should clean the lint from the vent pipe at least once a year, or more, if needed.

Washing Machine Fire Safety Tips

• Do not overload your washing machine. 
• Make sure that your machine is properly grounded and connected.
• Do not leave your washing machine running unattended.

Cooking Range Fire Safety Tips

According to NFPA, cooking is the main cause of electrical fires at home, so you have to be more careful and follow these tips to reduce risks;

• Keep the stovetop and oven clean and free from grease or other food particles. Never place combustible materials near the stove. 
• Never leave the range unattended if you are cooking. Turn the range off when you have to leave the kitchen.
• Turn the pot and pan’s handle inward to prevent knocking them off the stove. 
•  Consider installing safety devices such as stove knob stops, stove locking straps, and safety guards, especially if you have small children in the household. 
• When cooking, you should roll up your sleeves, tie back your hair, and wear non-slip footwear.
• Before using your gas range, make sure that there is no gas leak smell. If it does, open a window and contact a professional.
• Keep fire extinguishers, baking soda, or a metal lid nearby and use them to put out the fires.

Microwave Oven Fire Prevention Tips

• Keep the inside of your oven as well as the door and seals clean and free from any debris.
• Do not use metal pans or aluminum foil in a microwave oven. A metal can start a fire.  Use microwavable food containers instead.
• Never use your microwave oven to dry or sterilize baby bottles, clothes, or blankets.

Electrical Heaters Safety Tips

• Check your space heater for any signs of damage, cracked or broken plugs, or loose connection before using it. If there are any signs of damage, do not use it, and contact a professional to have it inspected and repaired. 
• Keep your heaters at least three feet away from combustible materials like rugs and upholstery.
• Place heaters on a stable, flat surface, preferably on the floor, where it can’t be knocked over easily. 
• Keep your heater away from wet areas like the bathroom or kitchen.

General Fire Safety Tips at Home

• Regularly inspect and maintain your home appliances. This includes checking the machines themselves, the wiring, and the power cords. If you notice any signs of damage to the cords and wiring, repair or replace them immediately. If the lights begin to flicker, the switches are hot to the touch and the outlets do not work, contact an electrician immediately to have the problem fixed. 
• Keep all your household appliances clean and free from any debris.
• Place your heaters and other heat-producing appliances away from any flammable items like curtains, rugs, and upholstery. 
• Keep home appliances at a safe distance from wet areas like the bathroom, kitchen, or basement.
• Avoid overloading outlets. Do not plug too many appliances into the same electrical outlet. 
• Never force an appliance with a three-prong plug into a two-prong plug. 
• Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Install fire alarms on every floor of your home. Test your alarms regularly and replace the batteries when needed.
• Keep fire extinguishers intended for electrical fires near your appliances. 

Contact Professionals At Superior Restoration For Fire Restoration Services

To reduce your risks of fire in a home, it is vital to practice appliance fire safety. The tips above can help protect you, your family, and your property from the disaster. In case you experience a house fire, contact Superior Restoration immediately for restoration services. 

We, at Superior Restoration, offer fire damage restoration services, as well as water damage restoration services. We will work in the fastest way possible to prevent soot and smoke from causing additional damage to your property. Also, we will ensure that your property is restored to its pre-damaged condition. Contact our local office today, Water Damage Corona.