10 Common Fire Causes in the Philippines

Many people say that it is better to get robbed than caught on fire. Being a fire victim is traumatizing, especially if you lost all your fruits of labor. Whether it is your fault or someone’s carelessness, it is highly recommended to practice fire prevention tips and safety measures to avoid such a tragic event. 

Before moving into a new house and lot in the Philippines, get to the common causes of fires to protect your family and property.

Common Causes of House Fires

March marks the start of summer in the Philippines and it is also the month with the hottest temperature and humidity every year. That is why the Bureau of Fire also declares March as Fire Prevention Month.

According to National Fire Protection Association, there are over 13, 029 fire incidents in 2022 and the common causes of fires are the following below.

Faulty Electrical Wiring

Majority of fire incidents occur due to faulty or defective electrical wiring. Among these are excessive use of extension cords, torn wires, and substandard electrical wires. Some people tend to set up electrical connections by themselves to save money from hiring a professional technician. As a result, electric wires are either incorrect or improperly connected.  

Defective Electrical Equipment or Appliances

Electrical equipment or appliances can also cause a house fire if they are defective. This includes loose or frayed electrical cords and plugs, clogged electrical plugs on outlets, and unplugged appliances when not in use.

Note that fuses blow and circuit breakers trip when overloaded. It can also cause a fire if you try to fix the wiring or electrical systems, especially if you’re not an expert. 

Ovens and Stoves Left Unattended

While it’s effective to multi-task some household chores while cooking, heating equipment like ovens and stoves left unattended can also harm your home. Any second, things can easily catch fire if they are near the stove, such as oven mitts, dish rags, or hand towels.

Cooking

Overheating pans or oil while cooking is also one reason why fire starts in the kitchen. Also, any distraction while preparing your meal can lead to cooking fires.  

Lit Candle Unattended

It is unfortunate that Filipinos always experience power outages during summer while others don’t have the electricity to light up their homes. Candles are the cheapest way to keep the home warm, and pleasant, and things are visible to see when candles are lit up. 

However, candles may also spark fires if left unattended or put in the wrong place. Your pets might stumble upon it or candles are placed near combustible materials like curtains and wallpapers, which causes candle fires. 

Children Playing with Fire

Kids have always a playful instinct and are curious about everything. Once they see you lighting up matches, lighters, or torches, they are usually amazed because it’s pleasing to their eyes. As a result, they want to copy what you’re doing. Chances are, it can also lead to serious home fires.

Improperly Stored Flammable Liquids

You may have not known or you forgot that you have flammable liquids stored in your garage or kitchen cabinets. Liquids like solvents, thinners, paints, fuels, adhesives, and cleaning agents may explode if improperly stored or not kept in a well-ventilated place.

Smoking Carelessly

Cigarette butts or embers if thrown carelessly can also cause a fire. It might have not totally put out the flame when disposed of so there’s a huge possibility it may land on combustible materials. 

Lighting

Light fittings and shades that are too close to light globes can also generate heat and friction. If knocked-over lamp bases are not replaced or removed, they can be hazardous and are subject to fire risks. 

Substandard Christmas Tree Light Decorations

Light connections and wiring of Christmas tree lights are delicate and can easily be damaged while others are made from substandard materials. If improperly stored, it can also create friction against other things that can start a fire.

Fire Prevention Tips and Safety Measures

No one wants to be a fire victim because it can cost a fortune to start all over again when everything is lost. Although you can still buy an affordable house and lot, it takes time to save money. But you can prevent them from happening if you follow some fire prevention tips and safety measures.

Unplug or disconnect appliances when not in use.

Electrical equipment or appliances that are plugged in not only increase your bill consumption but can also cause house fires. Therefore, be sure to unplug appliances when not in use, especially if there is no one in the house.

Have fire extinguishers or install fire protection systems.

Investing in fire protection systems like smoke detectors or fire alarms can also help you protect against fire incidents. Or, keep a fire extinguisher in your home if you have an insufficient budget. You can also install lightning rods to your outdoor antennas to prevent your home from fire due to a lightning strike.

Stay in the kitchen while cooking.

As much as possible, stay focused when doing household chores, specifically when cooking. Avoid multitasking, too. Seek assistance from a family member if you need more hands.

Remove or replace damaged appliances.

Sometimes, it is best to let go of other things that might endanger your family even if it has sentimental value. If these equipment or appliances have torn wires, get rid of them. You’re not only saving your family from house fires, but you also save energy consumption.

Practice fire safety by keeping an eye on lighted candles.

Since power outages cannot be avoided, always be mindful of the lighted candles. Keep them away from your pets or children to avoid accidents. Buying solar lights or lamps is also a great investment instead of frequently using candles.

Fire incidents can happen to anyone and many residents failed to exercise fire safety because they want to save their property. Another contributing factor why some fire incidents were not stopped because the emergency response team is too far from the incident’s location.

Fortunately, Lumina Homes is close to some of the most important emergency responding agencies, including the fire department. Plus, our selection of affordable house and lot for sale properties are built with firewalls, making the structure resistant to fire and heat. Rest assured, your family and investment are safe and secure from our residential community. Be a Lumina homeowner today.