Why Should We Worry About Flammable Things?
Every year, thousands of home fires start due to mishandled or improperly stored flammable things or materials. As stated by the National Fire Protection Association, flammable materials such as gasoline, aerosol cans, and cleaning solvents are responsible for more than 50,000 residential fires every year. These fires cause property damage in the millions of dollars and hundreds of lives lost.
In Ashburn, Virginia, five members of a family went homeless due to the house having caught fire, caused by the spontaneous combustion of potting soil that was left under the deck. This fire also damaged neighboring homes. Such events speak about the hidden risks of everyday items. Whether you’re safeguarding your property or preparing a fire-damaged home for resale, understanding these risks is crucial.
Everyday Items That Are Surprisingly Flammable
1. Aerosol Cans
Aerosol cans found in items such as hairsprays, air fresheners, or even spray paints are the most clandestine fire hazard. These containers typically rely on propane or butane as propellants, making them highly flammable. If stored close to heat sources or punctured, they can explode.
For instance, cabinets placed improperly in sunlight in the garage or laundry room can give a helping hand to these household items in igniting a fire. To reduce risk, keep aerosol cans far away from fireplaces, heaters, or direct sunlight.
2. Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover contains acetone, a chemical known for drying quickly and being highly flammable. Vapors emitted from acetone might be readily ignited by any open flame or spark in the vicinity.
A case with an alarming dimension was about a woman whose nail polish remover took fire on contact with a candle. It shows the need for responsible use and storage of such products.
3. Gasoline and Other Fuels
Among the most hazardous flammable substances mostly present in homes, especially in garages, is gasoline. It accounts for thousands of fires every year. Improper storage of gasoline in unapproved containers multiplies this danger many times over.
Gasoline and other emergency items in the house would increase the risk of another disaster in the fire-damaged property and may also hinder selling your home without extensive safety updates.
4. Rubbing Alcohol and Cleaning Products
Rubbing alcohol is found in millions of medicine cabinets, but it’s not often reckoned to be flammable. This stuff evaporates quickly; even a tiny spillage creates an extremely dangerous situation when subjected to heat or flame.
The situation is similar with oil-based cleaning products and furniture polishes that can ignite spontaneously if cleaning rags are left in an unventilated area. Read labels for notices about flammability, and never store these items near heat sources.
5. Candles and DIY Supplies
Candlelight certainly sets the mood, yet candles are potential sources of ignition, particularly when placed together with combustible materials of the DIY variety, such as paint thinner or linseed oil. As a result, spills, improper rag disposal, and general complacency can all cause fires.
If you’re staging a home for sale, ensure all candles are extinguished prior to leaving the property to avoid accidents.
Safety Tips for Managing Flammable Things
To minimize the risk of household fires, follow these precautions:
- Store Smartly
Flammable liquids and items should be kept in a cool, ventilated space away from heat and open flames. Garages and basements are often used as storage areas, but make sure the areas are free from any potential sources of ignition. - Label Awareness
Always read product labels for specific storage and usage instructions. Look for flame or explosion warnings to determine which items need extra care. - Dispose Properly
Always dispose of things like oil-soaked rags or spilled gasoline according to the local guidelines regarding hazardous waste disposal. Never throw them in the common household trash. - Upgrade Smoke Alarms
Interconnection among smoke alarms installed in your dwelling could greatly minimize fire hazards. It is in the case of sales of fire-damaged houses that indeed one has to present functional alarms for meeting inspection requirements and instilling confidence in buyers. - Limit Inventory
Only purchase small quantities of highly flammable substances to avoid keeping large, hazardous reserves at home unnecessarily.
If you are selling fire-scorched homes, you must make fire-related repairs and assessments because it is the difference between night and day. By allowing yourself a safe and prepared home, you protect lives and add measurable value to a building.
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