Fire can cause devastating property damage, business interruption and life-threatening injuries. However, many of these losses are preventable and stem from routine activities and overlooked hazards. Understanding these risks and applying simple prevention measures can significantly reduce the chance of fire damage.
Electrical Hazards 
Electrical malfunctions are one of the top contributors to structure fires. Small oversights, like overloaded power strips or aging wiring, can lead to hidden heat buildup behind walls and furniture.
Common Risks
- Overloaded power strips and circuits: Plugging too many devices into a single outlet or power strip — space heaters and kitchen equipment are especially dangerous when used with extension cords or power strips
- Old or damaged wiring: Aging, frayed or improperly installed wiring that may arc and overheat
How to Prevent Electrical Fires:
- Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets — never power strips
- Never “daisy chain” power strips
- Install additional outlets where power demand is high
- Replace damaged cords immediately
- Schedule inspections of older electrical systems
- Use licensed electricians for repairs, upgrades and installations
Flammable Materials
Oily, chemical-soaked or solvent-based materials, like rags, can ignite without a flame. Spontaneous combustion occurs when oils generate heat during oxidization and when that heat cannot escape, ignition can occur without a spark
Common materials at risk: Linseed oil, wood stains, oil-based paints and primers, paint thinner, turpentine, mineral spirits, alkyd resins, motor fuels, lubricants and grease-soaked clothing
Real-World Loss Example: Mechanics and other industrial workers have experienced dryer fires when grease-laden uniforms ignite under high heat in public laundromats.
How to Prevent Fires from Flammable Materials:
- Store oily rags in labeled, self-closing metal oily waste containers
- Keep containers in cool areas away from exits
- Never pile oily rags together; allow them to dry outdoors before disposal
- Avoid drying heavily grease-soaked clothing in public or household dryers
Carelessness and Negligence
Human error remains one of the most common fire risks. If left unattended or performed carelessly, everyday activities can escalate quickly.
Leading Causes
- Unattended or Careless Cooking: Cooking fires is a leading cause of loss. Grease fires can start fast, especially when exhaust stovetops, hoods and suppression systems are not regularly cleaned and maintained
- Careless Smoking: Improper disposal of cigarette butts can ignite furniture, trash or landscaping materials
- Contractor Negligence (Hot Work Exposure): Roofers, plumbers and welders using torches can accidentally ignite combustible materials
How to Prevent Careless Fires:
- Never leave cooking equipment unattended
- Keep combustibles away from stovetops
- Clean hood and duct systems regularly
- Regularly maintain and inspect fire suppression systems
- Use sturdy ashtrays and fully extinguish cigarettes before disposal
- Avoid smoking in bed or when fatigued
- Hire licensed, bonded and insured contractors; verify proof of insurance
- Implement hot work permits and fire watch procedures for construction or repair work
