🔥 Top 10 Fire Hazards Hiding in Your Home

(And How to Prevent Them)

Fire doesn’t need much to start—just the right mix of heat, fuel, and oxygen. Unfortunately, many homes unknowingly provide that recipe every day. As your local volunteer fire company, we’ve responded to countless calls that started with simple, preventable hazards. Here are the top 10 fire risks commonly found in homes—and what you can do today to reduce them.

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1. Overloaded Power Strips and Outlets

Too many appliances plugged into one outlet can cause overheating and electrical fires. This is especially risky in older homes not designed for today’s power loads.
What to do: Use UL-listed surge protectors, avoid daisy-chaining strips, and plug major appliances directly into wall outlets—not extension cords.

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2. Lint-Filled Dryer Vents

Dryer lint is more than just fuzz—it’s extremely flammable. While most people clean the lint trap, the ductwork behind the machine often goes unchecked.
What to do: Clean your lint trap after every load. At least once a year, disconnect the dryer duct and remove any built-up lint (or hire a professional to do it).

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3. Unattended Candles

Candles can turn a peaceful evening into a dangerous situation in seconds. They’re one of the leading causes of home fires, especially when left burning near curtains, decorations, or pets.
What to do: Always blow out candles when you leave the room, and place them on sturdy, heat-resistant surfaces away from anything flammable.

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4. Clutter Around Heat Sources

It’s easy to store things near heaters, furnaces, or water heaters without thinking. But cluttered spaces near these heat sources are ticking time bombs.
What to do: Keep a clear 3-foot space around all heating equipment. This includes baseboard heaters, radiators, and portable units.

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5. Kitchen Hazards and Unattended Cooking

Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires. Grease, oil, and high heat can ignite quickly—and fires spread even faster if no one’s watching.
What to do: Never leave cooking unattended. Keep flammable items like towels, paper, and plastic utensils away from the stove. Install a fire extinguisher within easy reach of the kitchen.

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6. Worn or Frayed Electrical Cords

Exposed wires or cracked insulation can arc and spark fires, especially near rugs, furniture, or curtains.
What to do: Replace damaged cords immediately. Avoid running cords under carpets, and never force a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet.

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7. Improper Battery Storage

Batteries—especially 9-volts and lithium-ion types—can short out if their terminals touch metal, causing fires in drawers, junk bins, or toolboxes.
What to do: Store batteries in their original packaging or a battery case. Recycle used batteries properly and never toss them loose into the trash.

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8. Fireplaces Without Proper Screens or Maintenance

A cozy fire is nice—until embers jump onto the carpet. Without regular cleaning and a protective screen, fireplaces can be serious hazards.
What to do: Always use a metal or glass screen. Have chimneys professionally cleaned annually to prevent creosote buildup, which can ignite and cause chimney fires.

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9. Neglected Small Appliances

Toasters, coffee makers, and space heaters all pose risks if left plugged in when not in use or if used improperly.
What to do: Unplug small appliances when not in use. Keep them clean and free of crumbs or dust. Never leave space heaters running unattended.

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10. Improperly Discarded Smoking Materials

Cigarette butts that seem “out” can smolder for hours. Fires often start in planters, mulch beds, or trash cans because of this.
What to do: If you smoke, do so outside, and use a sturdy ashtray. Douse cigarette butts and ashes with water before tossing them in the trash.

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🔥 Prevention Is Power

Most fires start from everyday oversights—not dramatic accidents. The good news is, you have the power to prevent them. Take a walk through your home this week with these tips in hand, and make a few simple changes that could save lives.

Need help doing a home fire safety check? Contact us—we’d be happy to offer guidance or even come out and help. That’s what we’re here for.

Stay safe, stay prepared, and thank you for being a fire-smart neighbor.

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🔥 Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company Needs You
We’re your neighbors, friends, and family—100% volunteer and always ready to answer the call. But we can’t do it alone.

Whether you’re interested in firefighting, driving, or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a role for you at Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Company. No experience needed—we’ll provide the training, gear, and support.

Are you ready to make a difference? [Click here to learn more and get involved]