It was a Sunday one family from Eastleigh, Hampshire, will never forget. A massive fire engulfed their home the humans shared with seven dogs, according to a BBC News report.
While five of the Newfoundland dogs received proper treatment and eventually left the vet hospital, one had to remain. It suffered 40% burns. The other had to be put to sleep due to the severity of the injuries.The humans, meanwhile, spent some time in the hospital because of smoke inhalation.The cause: an electric heater that sat near the bedside.
Fires involving heating equipment is not new in the UK. The data from 2005 revealed that it was responsible for over 60,000 residential fires. These incidents resulted in more than 600 deaths, 1,500 injuries, and hundreds of thousands of property damage.
As expected, these fires tend to peak or become more frequent during the colder months. After all, homes turn on their heating more often and for more extended periods.
Why Do These Fires Happen in the First Place?
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Fires occur for a myriad of reasons. When it comes to heating equipment, it can be due to the following:
1. Poor or Faulty Installation
Heating standards in the UK exist for a reason-that is, to safeguard life and property. The problem is some homeowners might decide to cut costs. They hire unregistered orunlicencedpeople to do the job.
When you want to guarantee your safety, it’s best to hire professional heating engineers in Lanarkshire instead.
2. Problematic Thermostat
Many homes rely on their thermostat to control their home’s temperature. This device can automatically switch on an air-conditioning unit when it detects the space is getting warmer. When the temperature drops, it activates the heater.
This is where the hazard comes in. If it becomes faulty or problematic, it can register a temperature as something cold. It then turns on the heater even without your knowing about it.
3. The Proximity of Highly Combustible and Flammable Materials
The terms “combustible” and “flammable” don’t mean the same thing. A material is said to be combustible if it burns or catches fire fast. It is flammable when it ignites depending on the air temperature.
Either way, these materials can react to the intense heat provided by the heating equipment. That’s why experts always suggest never to place flammable or combustible materials close to a heater. Make sure there’s enough space between them.
4. Lack of Proper Maintenance
Heaters, like all other appliances, can experience wear and tear. The deterioration, though, might only increase the risks of catching or starting a fire.
The ideal maintenance schedule depends on the manufacturer and kind of unit. If you’re using a gas heater, a professional should check and maintain it every two years.
It’s also essential that alicensedexpert can test the equipment for the risk of carbon monoxide spillage. This gas isodorlessand invisible, but it can cause death.
Can you imagine spending cold days and nights without a heater? Without it, chilly months become more bearable. But it’s equally important to ensure the heater you’re using is safe. Regular maintenance doesn’t only make your appliance efficient but also protects you and your family from harm.