When you live in an apartment or condo, fire safety is a shared responsibility. You do your part to keep your place safe, but you also rely on neighbors, building management and properly maintained common areas to be safe. Because units are close together, fire can spread quickly from one home to another making prevention especially important for renters and condo residents.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, cooking remains the leading cause of residential building fires, followed by other unintentional or careless actions, heating and electrical malfunctions. The good news is that many common apartment fires can be prevented with a few simple habits.
Cooking
Cooking fires are one of the most common fire risks in any home. They can happen when food is left unattended, a burner is accidentally left on, grease overheats or items near the stove catch fire. Stay in the kitchen while cooking, keep towels and packaging away from the stovetop and avoid wearing loose clothing that could come in contact with a burner.
Grilling
Grilling on a balcony, especially a wood balcony, can be dangerous and may violate your lease or local fire rules. A grill can tip over or sparks can travel and heat can damage nearby surfaces. Before grilling at an apartment or condo, check your community’s rules and use only approved grilling areas.
Heating
If your apartment has a fireplace, ask building management whether the chimney is inspected and cleaned regularly before using it. Keep furniture, blankets, decorations and other items that can burn at least three feet away from the fireplace. When disposing of ashes, make sure they are completely cool and place them in a metal container not a paper bag, plastic bag or cardboard box.
Space heaters can provide extra warmth, but they should be used carefully. Place them on a flat, nonflammable surface where they cannot easily be knocked over. Keep them at least three feet away from anything that can burn and always turn them off before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Open Flames
Candles can make a space feel cozy, but they should never be left unattended. Keep lit candles away from curtains, bedding, paper, décor and anything else that could catch fire. Blow candles out before leaving the room, leaving your apartment or going to bed.
Smoking
Smoking materials can start a fire if they are not fully put out. Never smoke in bed, and avoid placing ashtrays near bedding, furniture, paper or other flammable items. Make sure cigarettes and ashes are completely extinguished before throwing them away.
Appliances and Electronics
Everyday appliances such as an iron, curling irons and hair straighteners can become fire hazards if they are left on or placed near items that can burn. Even if an appliance has an automatic shutoff feature, it is a good idea to unplug it after use and let it cool on a heat-resistant surface.
Phones, tablets and other rechargeable devices can also produce heat while charging. Avoid charging electronics on beds, couches or other soft surfaces, and use charging cords and adapters that are in good condition.
No one expects a fire to happen at home, but renters insurance can help you recover if it does. Depending on your policy, renters insurance may help replace damaged belongings and cover additional living expenses if your apartment becomes temporarily unlivable after a covered fire.
Taking a few simple precautions can make your apartment safer for you, your roommates and your neighbors. If you have questions about renters insurance or want to review your coverage, Haulers Insurance can help you understand your options and choose protection that fits your needs.