Each year more than 4,000 American lives are lost, and 500,000 homes are damaged or destroyed from fires, said Janie Harris, Texas Agricultural Extension Service housing and environmental specialist. But the emotional damage to survivors and their loved ones is immeasurable. Not all of these fires have to happen, Harris said. A few common-sense precautions may prevent some homes and lives from being damaged or destroyed. First, know some of the common causes of home fires and take steps to eliminate or correct them.
Electrical dangers can come from many different sources.
If using candles, make sure they are placed securely in a spot where they can't be accidently tipped over, or where fabric or some other combustible material can accidently reach the flame. Clean the lint filter of the clothes dryer after each use. Oily fabrics can spontaneously combust and start a fire that can spread to the house. And above all, be prepared. All the caution in the world may not prevent a house from burning in a fire, so, in addition to installing smoke alarms, having a family escape route is of vital importance, Harris said.