Fires can occur at any time, often without much thought given to their cause; many potential triggers are actually out in plain sight. Everyday household items, commonly used in daily life, can pose significant fire hazards—some become dangerous only when mishandled or improperly stored, while others may seem completely harmless. If household items that are flammable are dealt with inappropriately, the consequences can be severe.
In this guide, we will explore household items that are flammable, how to identify them, and how you can safely store them. Through education and preventative measures, you have the power to help protect your family and home from the life threatening risk of a home fire.
Common Household Items That Are Flammable
You might be astonished to find out how many everyday items you use present a fire risk. Here’s an overview of several highly flammable household items and the reasons they need additional care:
1. Cleaning Products
Cleaning products are a staple in every household, but many contain highly flammable chemicals. Examples include:
- Bleach
- Alcohol-based cleaners
- Aerosol sprays
Many of these products also contain solvents, alcohol or similar flammable substances. For example, aerosol sprays contain flammable gases, which will ignite if they come in contact with an open flame or high heat.
Pro Tip: Always store the cleaning products in a cool, dry place away from the reach of direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottled cleaners tightly closed after use.
2. Cooking Supplies
The kitchen ranks among the most fire-sensitive spaces in a house, due to combustible cooking materials like:
- Cooking oils (vegetable oil, olive oil)
- Aerosol cooking sprays
- Flour (yes, fine flour particles can ignite in high concentrations!)
- Alcohol-based extracts like vanilla or almond extract
These objects can readily ignite kitchen fires, particularly if left without supervision close to cooktops or flames.
Quick Safety Tip:
- Never leave cooking oils or sprays close to a direct heat source.
- Keep a small fire extinguisher in the kitchen to manage grease fires effectively and avoid using water on them.
3. Beauty and Personal Care Products
Beauty products might help you look your best, but many are surprisingly flammable. Examples include:
- Nail polish and nail polish remover (contains acetone)
- Hairspray
- Perfumes and colognes
These items frequently include alcohol or various other highly combustible substances. Applying hairspray close to an open flame or hot styling device can start a fire in just seconds.
Pro Tip:
- Store beauty products away from extreme heat and always keep lids tightly closed.
4. DIY & Home Repair Tools and Supplies
Whether you’re working on home repairs or weekend woodworking projects, be aware that many DIY tools and materials are flammable:
- Paints and paint thinners
- Glues and adhesives
- Gasoline or fuel for lawn equipment
Improper storage of these items can lead to fire risks, especially in warm spaces like garages or sheds.
Storage Tip:
- Keep these items in their original containers and place them in a well-ventilated storage space to avoid the accumulation of hazardous vapors.
5. Miscellaneous Items
There are other everyday household items we often overlook that can be potential fire hazards:
- Candles and matches
- Batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries (common in devices like phones and laptops)
- Devices powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries
Batteries can overheat and even explode if damaged or stored improperly.
Pro Tip:
- Avoid overcharging devices and always replace damaged batteries immediately.
Tips for Identifying Flammable Items
Not sure if something in your home is flammable? Use these tips to identify items that might pose a fire risk:
- Read the Labels:
Look for warning symbols or fire hazard labels on the packaging.
- Be Aware of Common Indicators:
Alcohol, petroleum-based products, and aerosols are typically flammable.
- Notice Placement in Stores:
Items stored with warning signs or away from heat in stores are likely flammable at home too.
Staying informed is the first step in preventing accidents.
Best Practices for Safe Storage
Once you’ve identified the flammable items in your home, follow these storage best practices to minimize risk:
1. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Most flammable products come with clear storage instructions. Always read and adhere to these directions.
2. Use Proper Containers
Flammable liquids must be kept in certified, securely sealed containers to avoid leaks or vapor accumulation.
3. Keep Away from Heat Sources
Keep combustible materials away from stoves, heaters, radiators, or locations exposed to direct sunlight.
4. Restrict Access
To protect children and pets, store dangerous items in locked cabinets or out of reach entirely.
5. Organize Your Storage Space
Avoid overcrowding your storage areas. Flammable items should be separated from other household goods.
6. Ensure Ventilation
Garages or storage sheds containing flammable materials must ensure adequate ventilation to avoid the buildup of toxic or flammable vapors.
What to Do in Case of Fire
Even with measures taken, incidents can still occur. Get ready by taking the following steps:
- Use a Fire Extinguisher: Learn how to use one, and ensure it’s easily accessible. The PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) is a simple way to remember how to operate an extinguisher.
- Install Smoke Detectors: Place them on every floor of your home and check the batteries regularly.
- Create a Fire Escape Plan: Ensure that everyone in your home understands what actions to take and where to go if there’s a fire.
- Contact Emergency Services Immediately: Don’t wait to see if the fire reduces on its own. Call emergency responders right away.
Take Control of Fire Hazards in Your Home Today
Fire extinguishers & smoke alarms are not enough- fire safety policies are what truly matter. By identifying common household items that are flammable and making an effort to store them carefully, you can significantly enhance the safety of your family and home, and potentially avoid the challenges of selling a fire-damaged house.
Begin today by inspecting your home for possible fire risks and implementing these safe storage methods. A small amount of effort now can protect you from possible trouble later on.
Remember, staying informed and cautious is your strongest defense against household fires.
Previous