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8 Ways to Protect Yourself from an Appliance Fire
Updated: Tuesday, February 07, 2012 - 12:12 PM
Appliances can pose a fire
hazard even when they are not in use, according to a recent
investigation by Consumer Reports. While human error can play a
role, especially in fires involving cooking appliances and clothes
dryers, Consumer Reports' in-depth analysis of federal fire data
revealed that only about half of all appliance fires could be
attributed to human mistakes-much of the rest appear to be caused
by problems with the appliances themselves.
In fact, in the past five years, more than 15 million appliance
units have been recalled by the CPSC and manufacturers for defects
that could cause a fire; 7.3 million (almost half) of the recalled
units were dishwashers. Consumer Reports offers the following eight
steps homeowners can take to protect themselves:
1. Register new appliances. It is
critical that consumers register their products with manufacturers
in order to be promptly notified in the event of a recall.
Consumers concerned about their privacy or junk mail need only
provide manufacturers with their name, contact information and the
appliance's model number.
2. Check for recalls. Consumers
can sign up for alerts at www.recalls.gov. Those who move into a
home with existing appliances should record their make and model
and check company websites for any recalls or review customers'
experiences with those products at www.SaferProducts.gov.
3. Install fire-prevention
equipment. Each level of a home and every bedroom
should have a working smoke alarm. Consumer Reports recommends
smoke alarms have both photoelectric and ionization sensors to
provide the fastest response to any type of fire. Also, keep one
full-floor fire extinguisher (rated 2-A:10-B:C or greater) on every
level, plus a smaller supplemental unit in the kitchen.
4. Inspect power cords. Check
for frayed power cords and never route electric cords (including
extension cords) under carpeting, where they can overheat or be
damaged by furniture.
5. Check home wiring.The electrical
wiring in older homes cannot always handle the demands of modern
applianc es. Systems should be inspected by a qualified
electrician. An upgrade to wiring may cost several hundred dollars,
but is likely worth the added expense.
6. Practice kitchen safety.Unattended
cooking is a common fire-starter, whether using a range or
microwave oven. If small children are home, maintain a
kids-free-zone of at least 3 feet and use back burners when
possible. Consumers should unplug their small appliances, including
toasters and coffeemakers, when not in use and or when planning to
be away for long periods,
7. Clear range hoods. Grease
buildup in range hoods is another fire hazard, so be sure to clean
the vents regularly.
8. Keep dryer vents clear. Clean the
lint screen in the dryer regularly to avoid buildup, which has been
listed as a factor in many fires. Use rigid metal dryer ducts
instead of flexible ducts made of foil or plastic, which can sag
and let lint build. Check ducts regularly and remove any lint
buildup. .
