Reduce the Risk of Fire in Your Garage
There are about 6,600 garage fires every year in homes. This results in relatively 30 deaths, 400 injuries and $457 million in property loss. Of those fires, 93% are in a one and two-family homes.
You may not realize it, but your garage could be a fire hazard. This is especially disconcerting if your garage is attached to your home. Luckily there are simple measures you can take to reduce the risk of fire in your garage.
Why are garages a source of fire safety concerns?
- Oil or gasoline may drip from cars and collect unnoticed causing a potential fire hazard.
- Flammable liquids are often stored in garages. Some examples include gasoline, paint and varnish, lighter fluid, brake fluid and motor oil, or liquid containing solvents. These liquids could also create explosive vapors.
- Hot water heaters and boilers are commonly installed in the garage and can spark under certain circumstance creating a safety issue when combined with noxious fumes.
- When garages are used as work or crafting areas, and tools and chemicals are not stored or cleaned up properly this could be dangerous.
- Garages are not typically heated, so extra care is necessary if working in the garage during the winter and using space heaters.
How can you reduce the risk of fire in your garage?
- Keep all flammable liquids in clearly labeled, sealed containers, and in small amounts.
- Store flammables off the floor away from heaters, appliances pilot lights and any source of flames or heat.
- Never store propane tanks indoors, they present a potential hazard and are sturdy enough to store outdoors.
- Keep the floor cleared of clutter like papers and soiled rags.
- Always use lightbulbs with the appropriate wattage.
- Never overload electrical outlets as electrical malfunctions are the highest cause of garage fires.
- Tape down any cords to avoid warping and fraying, or a tripping hazard.
Your garage door could also help to prevent the fire from spreading. When purchasing, doors are aware that they have ratings expressed in blocks of time such as 20, 45, 60, or 90 minutes. The times represent the door’s ability to prevent the spread of fire, and will allow for escape.
For more information about fire-rated doors or how you can reduce the risk of fire in your garage, please contact Door Tech today.