The Startling Truth Behind Electrical House Fires Statistics

Recent advancements in technology have made the lives of people more comfortable, efficient and easy. But with these advances come mishaps too. Every year, electrical house fires cause property damage, loss of life and related financial implications. In this article, we'll take a look at the startling truths behind electrical house fire statistics.

What Causes Electrical House Fires?

Electrical house fires are caused by several different factors. These include: overload of electrical circuits, aging electrical wiring, faulty electrical outlets, and overloaded appliance outlets. Poor installation of electrical appliances can also cause house fires, as can short-circuits, loose connections, frayed cords, and improper extension cords. Fortunately, many of these issues can be avoided with regular safety checks.

How Frequently Do Electrical House Fires Occur?

Homeowners are often unaware of just how frequently electrical house fires occur. According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), electrical fires accounted for 6.6% of all residential fires between 2009 and 2011. During this same period, these fires caused approximately $780 million in direct property damage annually.

Where Do Electrical House Fires Occur Most Frequently?

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most common places for electrical house fires are bedrooms and living rooms. According to the USFA, in 2011, 31.2% of electrical fires occurred in bedrooms while 20.7% occurred in living rooms. Other common hotspots include attics/lofts/roofs (15.7%), kitchens (11.3%) and hallways (10.5%).

The Impact of Electrical House Fires on Finances

In addition to the devastating impact of electrical house fires on the lives of the affected people, these fires can also have a lasting effect on one's finances. The USFA estimates that an average property fire costs around $45,000, a figure that is likely to rise as property values increase over time. Additionally, many homeowners do not have enough insurance coverage to cover the full cost of fire damage.

Is There a Way to Reduce the Risk of Electrical House Fires?

Fortunately, there are steps that homeowners can take to reduce the risk of electrical house fires. First, it is important to have regular safety checks and inspections of all electrical appliances and wiring. Additionally, homeowners should use surge protectors or circuit breakers when using large appliances or high-power electronics. Finally, all outdated wiring should be replaced as soon as possible. By following these basic steps, homeowners can significantly decrease their chances of suffering from an electrical house fire.

Conclusion

Electrical house fires can be heartbreaking and financially damaging events. Fortunately, understanding the factors that cause these fires, and taking the necessary steps to reduce the risk of them happening, can significantly reduce the chance of property and personal losses.

House Fire Statistics Research 2022 The Zebra