Fall Fire Damage: 5 Undeniable Causes To Watch Out For

10/30/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the go-to choice for property owners in Dayton looking to combat fire damage!

Fire damage restoration professionals have seen fall fire damage happen inside and outdoors.

With its crisp air, colorful leaves, and warm ambiance, fall can often give us a false sense of security. While the season may seem picturesque, it also brings specific risks, especially for homeowners. One such risk is the potential for fall fire damage. 

Fire hazards lurk around our homes as the temperatures drop and the nights grow longer. Home fire hazards are not only a threat to property but also to the safety of families living inside.

Last year, we received an urgent call from a distressed homeowner in Dayton, Ohio, after their property suffered severe fall fire damage. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance during autumn.

What is fall fire damage?

Fall fire damage refers to the destruction or impairment of property due to fires that typically occur in autumn. Factors like fallen leaves, heating equipment, and using candles during Halloween and Thanksgiving contribute to the rise in house fires during this period.

How does fall fire damage occur?

There are several reasons why fires tend to increase during the autumn season:

1. Heating equipment: As the weather gets colder, homeowners use heating equipment more frequently. However, malfunctioning heaters or those placed too close to flammable materials can quickly start a fire.
2. Fallen leaves: Dry and fallen leaves can be a fire hazard, especially if they accumulate near the house or in the gutters.
3. Candles: With festivities in the air, the use of candles increases. But, leaving them unattended or placing them near flammable objects can lead to disasters.
4. Halloween decorations: Many decorations are made of combustible materials, which can be hazardous, especially when paired with open flames or faulty lighting.
5. Chimneys: Chimneys can get clogged as their usage increases without regular maintenance, leading to a potential fire hazard.

What is the severity of a fire hazard?

The recent case from Dayton, Ohio, illustrates the severity perfectly. The homeowner had lit a candle on a wooden mantel surrounded by autumn decorations. The candle was left unattended for just a few minutes, and the decorations caught fire, rapidly spreading and causing extensive damage to their home. When firefighters extinguished the flames, a significant portion of the property was destroyed.

Tips to prevent indoor and outdoor fall fires

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some recommendations for fire damage prevention:

• Inspect heating equipment: Before using heaters, ensure they're in good working condition and keep them away from flammable materials.
• Clear dry leaves: Regularly remove fallen leaves, especially from gutters and areas near the house.
• Be careful with candles: Never leave candles unattended; keep them away from flammable materials.
• Opt for LED lights: Instead of open flames, opt for LED lights for Halloween decorations.
• Chimney maintenance: Inspect and clean chimneys to prevent blockages and possible fires.

Why choose SERVPRO® for fall fire damage recovery?

When faced with the aftermath of a devastating fire, homeowners are often overwhelmed with emotions and uncertainty. That is when they need to look to an experienced fire restoration team to step in. Here's why SERVPRO should be your first call:

1. Quick response: In the case of the Dayton homeowner, our SERVPRO team was on-site within hours, minimizing further damage.
2. Experienced professionals: Our team has the training and experience to handle fire damage, ensuring a thorough and efficient restoration process.
3. Advanced equipment: We utilize state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to restore your property to its pre-fire condition.
4. Insurance assistance: Navigating insurance claims can be daunting, but our team aids homeowners in the process, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
5. Personalized care: Every fire damage situation is unique, and our team provides customized solutions tailored to each homeowner's needs.

Wrapping up

Fall fire damage is a real and pressing concern. As the seasons change, homeowners must be vigilant and proactive in preventing potential fire hazards. But if disaster does strike, it's crucial to have a reliable and efficient partner for recovery. SERVPRO's rapid response, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction make us the obvious choice for homeowners facing the aftermath of fall fire damage. With our help, homes and lives can be rebuilt, even in adversity.