Six Simple Ways To Prevent Fire Outbreaks

Fire outbreaks have become a recurring event in the news from the Los Angeles fire to the recent Kwara fire incident. The Kwara incident started from a match stick before burning the whole house down. Fire outbreaks are common in this country. The Lagos State Fire Service stated that about 1,749 fire incidents happened in the state in 2024, which cost many lives and billions of naira in damages. Other states recorded similar results. 

Undoubtedly, fire outbreaks are disastrous. As a result, everyone must know how to prevent fire outbreaks to save their life and belongings. That said, this concise article explores reliable fire safety tips to mitigate potential fire outbreaks. 

How to Prevent Fire Outbreaks at Home: Six Safety Tips 

Here are crucial fire safety tips that don’t only save lives but also ensure your belongings and those around you are safe: 

• Watch Naked Flames 

Naked flames are one of the leading causes of fire outbreaks. These flames include cooking flames and lighted candles. The only things a fire needs to spread are open flame and oxygen. Leaving a naked flame unattended can start a fire. If you are going to take your eyes off the flame, stay close or turn it off. It also helps if you install a smoke alarm to prevent the uncontrolled spread of fire. 

• Don’t Smoke In Tight Spaces 

We recommend smoking in a ventilated place. Also, before you dispose of the cigarettes, ensure you put them out. A lit cigarette is a fire hazard. If you don’t put them out, they can cause a fire in the trash can and spread to the rest of the space. Also, take the “no smoking” signs in places like the filing stations, gas stations, and hotels seriously.

• Unplug Items You Aren’t Using 

Electric fires are becoming increasingly common. Hence, fire experts recommend that you unplug items you aren’t using to mitigate the risk. An electric surge can lead to excess current loading the device and lead to a fire. The rule applies to most devices, including TVs, fans, and laptops. 

• Regular Cleanup

One way to set your house on fire is by allowing grease to build up on cooking surfaces. They are extremely flammable and can cost you your kitchen and other parts of the house. Hence, clean the surface regularly to reduce the risk and remain safe. 

• Beware of Leaky Cylinders 

A significant amount of fire incident victims are a result of gas explosions. The experience is excruciating and can be disastrous. However, it is preventable. Those with gas cylinders should seal their gas valves properly. Also, ensure the gas burners aren’t faulty. If you notice any faults with your gas cylinders, fix them immediately. 

• Keep Flammables Outside 

Ensure you keep highly flammable items outside the reach of naked flames. Examples of flammable items are petrol, kerosene, paints, and gas. Don’t store any of this in the house. Also, don’t use other flammables like deodorant, alcohol, and cleaning fluid near open flames.