City of Andrews, TX

Common Fire Hazards



Home fires are predictable. The vast majority of home fires are caused by the same causes. The good news:  these fires are preventable!  (NFPA)

Top Causes of Fire:
Arson and intentional fires. Most of these fires occur outside, but most of the associated deaths, injuries, and losses occur in structures, particularly in homes.

Candles. The top three days for home candle fires are New Year's Day, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.

Cooking. Includes general cooking safety info, as well as tips for microwaves, cooking oil and turkey fryers.Common Cooking Hazards
Common Electrical Fire Hazards
Electrical. Safety in the home with circuit interrupters.

Heating. The peak months for home heating fires are December, January and February.

Smoking. Smoking materials (i.e., cigarettes, cigars, pipes, etc.) are the leading cause of fire deaths in the United States.

Young Firesetters. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and inuries each year.
Child Playing with Matches
Safety Measures:  Do You Allow Unsafe Habits?
These guidelines may help your family become more safety aware.

Wear close-fitting sleeves while cooking (No loose sleeves, shirts, blouses or skirts that may catch fire).
Never leave cooking unattended.
Never play with matches or lighters.
Never use gasoline to start a fire in the grill or add lighter fluid to an already started fire.
No smoking in bed or in a chiar or on the sofa when tired, drinking or taking medication.
Never spray aerosols while smoking or near a space heater, range or other ignition source.
No smoking while using a cleaning fluid, paint thinner or other flammable liquid.
Never use a cigarette lighter after spilling flammable fluid on your hands or clothing.
Never reach over a range or climb onto a range to get something stored above it.
Never lean against a range for warmth or stand too close to a heater or fireplace.
Never let a small child blow out a match.
Never use a lighted match, lighter or candle to illuminate a dark area, such as a closet.