Residential fires are a leading cause of property damage, injuries, and deaths in the United States. In 2016, there were an estimated 350,000 residential fires in the United States, which resulted in approximately $5.5 billion in direct property damage.
There are many different causes of residential fires, but some are more common than others. In Tennessee and Northern Alabama, the most common causes of residential fires are cooking-related, heating-related, and electrical fires.
Cooking-related fires are the leading cause of residential fires in the United States. In 2016, cooking-related fires accounted for approximately 17% of all reported home fires. The majority of cooking-related fires are started by the ignition of food or other cooking materials, such as grease and oils.
Heating-related fires are the second leading cause of residential fires in the United States. In 2016, heating-related fires accounted for approximately 15% of all reported home fires. The majority of heating-related fires are started by the ignition of combustible materials, such as wood and paper.
Electrical fires are the third leading cause of residential fires in the United States. In 2016, electrical fires accounted for approximately 9% of all reported home fires. The majority of electrical fires are started by the malfunction of electrical equipment, such as wiring and cords.
If you live in Tennessee or Northern Alabama, it is important to be aware of the most common causes of residential fires in your area. By taking precautions and being mindful of potential fire hazards, you can help keep your home safe from fire.
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/data/statistics/
https://www.nfpa.org/-/media/Files/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/US-statistics/Home-structure-fires/Home-fires-started-by-ignition-of-food-or-cooking-materials.pdf
https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Fire-statistics-and-reports/US-fire-statistics/Home-structure-fires