House fires can start in an instant—and in a city like Houston, where extreme heat and electrical demand collide, being fire-ready is a must. At Restoration 1 of Central Houston, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly things can go wrong. Here are the top causes of house fires and how to avoid them:

1. Cooking Accidents

The #1 cause of house fires in the U.S.

• Never leave food unattended on the stove.
• Keep flammable items (towels, curtains) away from burners.
• Clean grease buildup regularly.

2. Electrical Malfunctions

• Don’t overload outlets or power strips.
• Replace damaged cords and avoid using extension cords for permanent setups.
• Schedule regular inspections, especially in older Houston homes.

3. Heating Equipment

• Keep portable heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable.
• Don’t leave space heaters running unattended.
• Have chimneys cleaned annually if you use a fireplace.

4. Candles and Open Flames

• Never leave candles burning overnight or unattended.
• Use flameless candles as a safer alternative.

5. Smoking Indoors

• Smoking is a major cause of fatal house fires.
• Smoke outside and fully extinguish cigarette butts in water or sand.

6. Faulty Appliances

• Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Watch for signs of electrical shorts like flickering lights or burning smells.

What to Do if a Fire Happens

Even with precautions, accidents happen. If your home is affected by fire, call Restoration 1 of Central Houston immediately. We’ll handle:

• Smoke and soot removal
• Structural drying
• Mold prevention
• Full fire damage restoration

Our team is available 24/7 in Houston, TX, to help you recover quickly, safely, and thoroughly.