Bedroom Fires: How Common Are They And What Starts Them?

Fires in the bedroom are a common occurrence, with electrical fires being the most prevalent type. These fires often result from faulty wiring, malfunctioning lighting, or the misuse of electrical devices such as extension cords and space heaters. Children playing with fire, careless smoking, and arson are also significant factors. The consequences can be tragic, as fires in bedrooms have led to numerous injuries and fatalities. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize fire safety in the bedroom by taking preventative measures, such as proper electrical maintenance, keeping combustible items away from heat sources, and educating children about fire hazards.

Electrical devices: left unattended, misused, or poorly maintained

Electrical devices are a common cause of fires in the bedroom, with many fires caused by devices being left unattended, misused, or poorly maintained. Here are some important safety tips to prevent fires from occurring:

Heating Devices

Heating devices, such as space heaters, heated blankets, and heating pads, pose a significant fire risk when left unattended. It is crucial to unplug these devices as soon as you're done using them and to keep them away from combustible materials. When using heated blankets and heating pads, avoid compressing, folding, or burying them under heavy items. Additionally, only use UL-certified heating devices from reputable brands, and regularly inspect the cords for any signs of damage.

Power Strips and Extension Cords

Misuse of power strips and extension cords can also lead to electrical fires. Avoid overloading power strips and extension cords by plugging in too many devices. Only use power strips for low-power electronics, and ensure they are plugged directly into a grounded wall outlet, not an extension cord. Regularly inspect power strips and extension cords for any damage, and replace them if they show signs of wear and tear.

Loose Connections

Loose electrical connections can create intense heat and increase the risk of fire. When plugging in a device, ensure it is inserted straight and snugly into the outlet. Avoid plugging at an angle or rocking it back and forth. Keep long-term plugged-in devices, such as phone chargers, secure and regularly check that they haven't wiggled out of the sockets.

Light Fixtures

Light fixtures, lamps, and light bulbs can also cause electrical fires. Always use light bulbs with a wattage that is within the recommended range for your light fixtures and lamps. Never place materials like cloth or paper over a lampshade, as they can heat up and ignite. Additionally, faulty lamps and light fixtures can be dangerous, so consider upgrading to LED bulbs, which are safer and more efficient.

Outlets

Old and faulty outlets are another common cause of electrical fires. If you notice any issues with your outlets, such as a burning smell, discolouration, or smoke, stop using them immediately and contact an electrician. Replace old outlets every 15-25 years, and never force a three-prong cord into a two-slot outlet. Consider installing tamper-resistant electrical outlets if you have young children.

Children playing with lighters and matches

To prevent children from playing with lighters and matches, it is essential to keep these items out of their reach. Store them in a high cabinet, preferably locked, to ensure children cannot access them. Additionally, teach young children to notify an adult if they come across matches or lighters. Encourage them to inform a grown-up and remind them not to touch these items. Praise children when they demonstrate this responsible behaviour.

It is also important to extinguish matches and smoking materials completely and wet them before disposal. Using child-resistant lighters is recommended, but keep in mind that they are not "childproof". Avoid lighters that resemble toys, and never use fire to entertain children. Educate children about the safe uses of fire, such as cooking and heating, and explain that it is only for adults.

If your child exhibits an excessive interest in fire, has started a fire, or has played with matches and lighters, it is crucial to address their curiosity and teach them about fire danger. Contact your local fire department or school counsellor for assistance. They may have intervention programs specifically designed for this situation.

By taking these preventive measures and educating our children about fire safety, we can significantly reduce the risk of fires in bedrooms and other areas of the home.

Smoking in bed

Cigarettes and smoking materials are some of the top causes of fire-related fatalities. The danger is heightened when smoking in bed, as the smoker may fall asleep or pass out with a lit cigarette, which can then ignite the mattress, bedding, or surrounding furniture. The close proximity of the fire to the smoker means it is difficult to escape harm. Upholstered furniture, in particular, ignites quickly, consumes a lot of oxygen, and releases toxins.

To prevent smoking-related fires, it is crucial to never smoke in bed or when feeling tired. Smoking should also be avoided after consuming alcohol or taking medication that may cause drowsiness, as these factors can slow a person's reaction time in an emergency. It is also important to use proper ashtrays, placing them on flat, stable surfaces, and to douse smoking materials with water after use.

In addition to the fire risks, smoking in bed also exposes individuals to the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. The best way to eliminate these risks is to refrain from smoking indoors entirely or, better yet, consider quitting smoking altogether to improve one's health and reduce the risk of fire.

By following these safety precautions and being mindful of the dangers associated with smoking in bed, individuals can help keep themselves and their loved ones safe from the devastating impact of fire.

Arson

A common motive for arson is insurance fraud, where an individual destroys their own property by burning it and then lies about the cause to collect insurance money. However, arson can also occur when someone sets fire to their own property for other fraudulent purposes, or if the fire spreads to someone else's property.

To secure an arson conviction, a prosecutor must generally prove that the defendant's actions were intentional, purposeful, or reckless. In some states, the prosecutor must also show that the fire resulted in harm to property or a person. Accidentally setting a fire is not considered arson unless the person's actions were reckless.

In the context of bedrooms, fires can start due to the misuse or poor maintenance of electrical devices, such as overloading extension cords or using portable space heaters too close to combustible materials. Arson is also a contributing factor to bedroom fires, along with children playing with fire and careless smoking by adults.

Bedrooms are a common area of fire origin, with nearly 1,000 lives lost to fires that start in bedrooms each year in the United States. To prevent fires in the bedroom, it is important to follow safety precautions such as properly managing electric cords, keeping combustible items away from space heaters, and ensuring the use of lab-approved electric blankets and warmers.

Faulty or overtaxed wiring

Faulty wiring refers to electrical systems that are improperly installed, damaged, or outdated. Homes built over 20 years ago may have wiring that cannot handle the increased number of electrical appliances used today, such as computers, widescreen televisions, and air conditioners. Outdated wiring can lead to overloaded circuits, causing overheating and potentially resulting in a fire.

To prevent fires caused by faulty or overtaxed wiring, it is essential to follow these safety measures:

• Avoid overloading circuits or outlets. Plugging too many devices into a single circuit can lead to overheating and increase the risk of a fire.
• If you notice an outlet or switch giving off heat, unplug everything to prevent further overheating.
• Replace cords or wires that appear loose, damaged, or frayed. Exposed wires can come into contact with combustible materials and ignite a fire.
• Pay attention to warning signs such as flickering lights, discolored outlets, or unusual smells. If you notice any of these issues, call a licensed electrician to diagnose and address the problem.
• Get routine maintenance checks of your electrical system. A professional electrician can identify and fix any potential hazards before they lead to a fire.
• Be cautious when using heating equipment, as it is a common source of house fires. Space heaters, in particular, should be kept at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire, including bedding, clothes, and curtains.
• Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and regularly check the batteries to ensure they are functioning properly.

By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of a fire starting in your bedroom due to faulty or overtaxed wiring.

Frequently asked questions