Sonia
Keeping your home safe involves more than regular cleaning. Certain household items can become significant fire hazards if not maintained properly. This guide highlights 20 everyday items that need regular cleaning to prevent them from becoming potential fire risks.
Lint Traps in Dryers
Do you know that little lint trap in your dryer? The one you are probably ignoring. Here is what happens: every time you use your dryer, some of that lint ends up there. If you do not clean it out often, it will eventually get super clogged and cause a fire. So, just do a quick swipe after every load.
Stove and Oven
Think about all the grease and food bits that splash around when you are cooking. Over time, these can accumulate on your stove and in your oven. The next time you prepare your favorite meal, they can ignite, resulting in a fire. Give your cooking appliances a good cleaning at least once a month, or more frequently if you deep fry regularly.
Toaster Crumbs
Toasters are crumb magnets. Often, these tiny bread bits accumulate at the bottom and can catch fire when they get heated up too much. You can easily avoid this by cleaning your toaster every two weeks, giving it a good shake over the sink, and cleaning out the crumb tray.
Space Heaters
Space heaters are a super convenient means of keeping warm but may be very dangerous if they get dusty. Dust particles often ignite the heater’s coils and start a fire. Always keep your heater clean and make sure it is on a non-flammable surface away from anything that can burn, like curtains or bedsheets.
Exhaust Fans
Your bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans pull all sorts of dust and lint into their filters. When you do not clean them regularly, these clogs jam the fans’ free spinning, which can lead to overheating and potentially a fire. Make sure to clean these fans every few months to keep them running safely and efficiently.
Chimneys and Fireplaces
Cozying up in front of the fireplace is one of the most ideal activities. However, if you do not clean your chimney often, soot and creosote can accumulate and cause fire. It is best to have a professional chimney cleaning professional clean it out at least once a year, especially before you start using it in the colder months.
Grills and Barbecues
Who does not love a good barbecue? However, leftover grease and fat from your grilling can be a major fire hazard. Make sure to scrub down your grill after each use, checking for grease buildup in trays and beneath the grill. Regular cleaning not only prevents fires but also keeps your next BBQ tasting great.
Portable Cooking Appliances
Electric griddles, hot plates, and slow cookers are super convenient, especially when you are cooking up a storm. But, like any cooking appliance, they need to be kept clean. Food spills and oil can accumulate over time and ignite if they get too hot. It is best to wipe them down after each use to keep them safe.
Air Conditioner Filters and Vents
Your air conditioner does a lot, especially in those warm months. However, if the filters and vents are somehow blocked by dust and lint, they not only put pressure on the conditioner but can also pose a potential fire hazard when they overheat. So, make sure to clean and replace the filters regularly and keep those vents dust-free.
Wiring and Electrical Outlets
It may sound technical, but this is quite simple. Look around your house for frayed wires or overloaded outlets. They are not only a fire hazard but can also lead to electrical shocks. Keep your wires tidy, replace the ones that look worn out, and do not overload those power strips!
Microwaves
Microwaves are another kitchen staple that can become fire hazards if not maintained. Old or spilled food can get superheated and cause sparks or even flames. Make it a routine to wipe down the inside of your microwave regularly with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Also, check the door seal for any food particles to ensure it closes properly.
Laptop Computers
Although your laptop appears to be a relatively idle tool, it is quite the contrary on the inside. Laptops can accumulate dust in their cooling vents, which can cause them to overheat and potentially catch fire. Keep your laptop on a hard, flat surface (not your bed or couch), and dust it occasionally to keep those vents clear.
Lampshades and Light Fixtures
Dust and bugs can gather in lampshades and light fixtures, and when combined with the heat from the bulbs, they can create a fire risk. Regularly dusting these areas and using bulbs of the recommended wattage can help prevent overheating and ensure these fixtures stay safe.
Electrical Cords Under Rugs
This one is tricky because it is often out of sight. Running electrical cords under rugs prevents them from cooling properly and can damage them over time, making them more likely to catch fire. Make sure to keep them away from common walking paths, or do not cover them with a rug or heavy furniture.
Clothes Iron
Iron is one of the most frequently used items that can spark a fire if left unattended or used incorrectly. Always remember to switch off and unplug the iron when done. Never lay the iron face down on anything except its stand. Also, it is suggested that you check the cord sometimes for damage.
Dust Near Electrical Outlets
Dust might not seem like a big deal, but let me tell you, it can cause trouble around your electrical outlets and power strips. When dust piles up in these spots, it can trap heat and potentially start a fire. Make sure you regularly dust around outlets, power strips, and even the back of your TV stand, where dust tends to gather unnoticed.
Candles
Candles add a cozy touch to any room, but they can quickly become a fire hazard if not used carefully. Always place candles on a stable surface away from flammable materials like curtains. Make sure to blow them out when you leave the room. Also, keep them clean by trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch before each use to prevent large flames.
Old Kitchen Appliances
Kitchen appliances that are not functioning properly or are very old can be particularly dangerous. For instance, frayed cords or a malfunctioning motor in a blender can overheat and lead to fires. Regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of wear and tear, and consider replacing those that are outdated.
Decorative Lights
Whether it is holiday lights or decorative lamp strings, these can overheat, especially if the bulbs are old or the wires are damaged. Always unplug decorative lights when you are not around to keep an eye on them. Also, check the wires periodically for any signs of damage or fraying and replace them if needed.
Oil and Gas Containers
If you store oil, gasoline, or other flammable liquids at home, ensure they are in a proper storage area away from heat sources. These materials can emit vapors that could ignite if a spark or heat source is nearby. Always use approved containers and keep them out of the house, if possible, like in a shed or garage.
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