Average homeowners usually keep a wide variety of flammable household products around their homes. While they might be conscious that some of these products could easily catch fire, many of them look nondangerous.
The National Fire Protection Association states that flammable fluids and other ignitable household items cause more than 51,000 house fires every year, resulting in over a thousand injuries, more than 160 casualties, and a lot of property damages worth $644 million in total.
A homeowner like you can prevent these flammable items set your lovely home on fire with proper safety measures. This article will tell you what you need to know about the flammable fluids and products around your home and how to use and keep them safe.
Flammable Fluids and Products Around Your Home
1. Powdered Foods and Non-dairy Creamer
Non-dairy creamer, flour, sugar, starch, spices, and even powdered milk are not just potential fire hazards but all highly flammable. These products can quickly catch fire when exposed to an open flame.
So be extra careful when using these items. You may want to store them in an airtight jar or container to avoid getting them spilled and keep them far from the stove.
2. Cooking Oil
Indeed, cooking oil is very flammable. So when you cook, never leave your pan unattended. Otherwise, it will ignite and may put your home on fire.
Do not throw water on a pan fire because it will only cause bigger ignition. Moreover, never carry the pan outside to avoid spilling the burning oil. Place a damp cloth or towel over the pan and leave it for at least 30 minutes.
3. Hand Sanitizers and Rubbing Alcohol
These products are very flammable, which means they can catch fire easily. So use only a small amount of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizers that can swiftly dry out.
4. Aerosols
Beauty products like deodorants, hair mousse, and hair spray contain highly flammable alcohol. They can cause a fire problem when improperly used and stored. On top of that, these items can blow up when overheated. So ensure to keep them away from prolonged exposure under the sun or any heat sources.
5. Nail Polish and Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish and nail polish remover contain acetone, so both are fire hazards. These products create fumes and vapor that can catch fire even from a distance.
There was a reported fire case in Texas. A woman got burned because a candle near her ignited her nail polish remover. Although this is a rare incident, it is crucial to be cautious and never use these products near an open flame.
5. Black Shoe Polish, Mothballs, Pingpong Balls
Black shoe polish contains charcoal dust which is highly flammable. Vapor from mothballs are combustible and can ignite. Ping pong balls will also catch fire easily if exposed to an open flame.
6. Laundry Products
Pods, fabric softeners, and stain removers are flammable. So ensure to store them in a safe area. And when you are using them, avoid exposing these items to an open flame.
7. Oranges
Unexpectedly, oranges can also put your home on fire. The oil from this citrus fruit contains limonene which is flammable. When you squeeze its skin or peel near an open flame, the oil from it vaporizes and can catch on fire.
8. Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is used for staining or finishing work. It dries up once it is exposed to the air. This drying process is called oxidation. It creates heat that can cause a rag soaked in this liquid to catch fire with no outside spark.
Remember that any products used for staining, painting, and stripping are highly flammable.
9. Gasoline, Turpentine, Brake Fluid, Lighter Fluid, and Paint Thinner
They are the most dangerous fluids in your home. If you neglect to store them properly in your garage or shed, it can lead to a house fire.
Tips on How to Safely Keep Flammable Fluids and Items in Your Home
Keep your extremely flammable fluids (gasoline, oils, strippers, wood varnishes, and paints) outside your house. A detached shed or garage is the best possible place to store these fluids.
Keep your highly flammable fluids (gasoline, oils, strippers, wood varnishes, and paints) outside your house. A detached shed or garage is the best possible place to store these fluids.
Store your gasoline, brake fluid, turpentine, and paint thinner ONLY in UL-approved drums or containers.
The room where you store the flammable liquids and items should be dry and adequately ventilated. Also, keep the area at room temperature.
Fill the container 95% or a little less to allow for expansion and avoid container rupture from happening.
Ensure you seal the containers tightly to prevent fuel vapors from escaping into the air and possibly reaching a flame source.
Store these things in places away from electrical circuits, heat, sparks, and flames.
For Fire Damage Restoration Services, Contact Superior Restoration
A homeowner like you must give enough time to know about different flammable or combustible items around your home. Always remember to store them properly. It can save lives and prevent fire damage to your property.
Let us say your home has experienced fire damage. In this case, we recommend you seek help from Superior Restoration immediately. Our company offers extensive fire and smoke damage restoration services. We are available even in emergencies, 24/7.
We have highly skilled specialists who are always ready to restore your home in order. To know more about our services, call us today!
