Apartment fires can cause devastating amount of damage so it’s important that you avoid some of the most common causes.
An apartment fire can be completely devastating. While you may have all of your belongings covered under a rental insurance policy, that doesn’t recover sentimental items and it doesn’t prevent your health from being impeded upon. Freak accidents are an inevitability, but if you take the time to learn what the most common causes of apartment fires are and what you can do to avoid them, you can go a long way in protecting your home, your belongings, and your family.
1. Cooking Fires
Studies show that a vast amount of residential fires are caused as a result of cooking accidents. This is often a result of the ignition of common household items, such as wallpaper, rags, curtains, paper towels, or more. It’s no surprise that cooking fires are such common occurrences though if you take the right steps, they’re easy to avoid. Try keeping your cooking area clear of combustibles and be sure you’re not leaving your stovetop unattended. Always remember to turn off your burners whenever they aren’t in use. Unintentionally leaving a source of heat on is one of the most common reasons you may experience a fire within your apartment.
2. Arson
Of course, there’s not much you can do about intentional criminal arson. You may be able to let your landlord know if there are security concerns or invest in your own security system, but often, accidents get chalked up to being arson as well. Accidental fires can occur when someone within your home makes a mistake. Keep ignition sources away from children, including lighters, matches, or any other tools so that children can’t get their hands on them.
3. Appliances
Without taking proper care of your appliances, you’re opening yourself up to the possibility of an apartment fire. Maintenance for an apartment renter is easy as much of it doesn’t come down to you. That said, you do want to make sure you report any suspicious damages that could lead to something greater in the future. Ensure you aren’t operating your household appliances near water, which can also cause the risk of electrical shock. Always be sure you’re following the operating instructions outlined by the manufacturer.
The Apartments of Wildewood have a friendly community that’s waiting to welcome you!
At The Apartments of Wildewood, located in beautiful in St. Mary’s Maryland, we offer homes with access to pools, an on-site gym, and maintenance whenever you need it – and have access to all the information you need to affordably rent an apartment in St. Mary’s. To set up an appointment to check out an apartment or townhouse rental from The Apartments at Wildewood, call us at 301.737.0737 or visit the website!
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