According to surveys, heating equipment was involved in about 56,000 documented house building fires in the United States between 2009 and 2013, resulting in 470 civilian fatalities, 1,490 civilian injuries, and $1 billion in direct property damage. However, other risks, such those posed by carbon monoxide or even health impacts, are also significant.
Here are the main danger factors to be cautious of this year as millions of people in the northern hemisphere make their way through the freezing winter and crisp autumn months.
Unclean chimneys
Because chimneys were seldom cleaned, 27% of residential heating fires broke out. Since creosote build-up is extremely flammable, a chimney sweep with the proper brushes, cleansers, and inspection tools is the ideal person to remove it.
Electricity risks
Wires that are corroded or damaged provide an electrical risk. Before using, damaged or outdated electric heating components, thermostats, furnaces, and power sources need to be changed. 9% of all home heating fires are caused by electrical problems. And electrical heat sources were responsible for 35% of fires.
Additionally, gasoline lines that leak allow flammable substances or gases into a home. Together, these factors are explosive. Broken heat exchangers can also release carbon monoxide, which is dangerous.
Clutter
For heating systems to pull in cold air and disseminate hot air into a cozy concentration, there must be enough space. The heater may overheat if furniture, objects, or clutter impede the air intake; if the exhaust is blocked, objects may roast to the point of ignite. More than 50% of heating fires are caused by crowded heating equipment.
Negligence
Although leaving heating equipment unattended doesn’t necessarily lead to a fire, in 7% of cases a fire may have been avoided or mitigated with greater heating supervision.
Fuel spills
This home heating threat can affect any gas- or oil-powered machinery. Furnaces and gas heaters may develop leaks that release a combustible chemical into the air if they are not maintained.
Natural gas has no color and no smell. Gas suppliers give the gas mercaptan chemicals to give it a rotten egg scent. Gas stoves and ovens have the potential to leak tiny volumes of natural gas if they are not properly maintained.
