During the last couple of years, I've seen some homes in the neighborhoods adversely affected by fire damage. This has led me to want to share some fire safety tips, so that we can all do our part to help prevent the spread of fires.

In a helpful conversation with Brock Weliver, Fire Marshal at Waterloo Fire Rescue, I gained valuable insights into fire prevention that every homeowner, landlord, and renter should know. While smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are essential, true fire safety begins with prevention.

The Leading Causes of Home Fires

According to national data and Waterloo's local experience, the most common causes of residential fires are:

1. Cooking fires (50.2%): By far the leading cause of home fires nationwide, these typically result from unattended cooking.
2. Heating issues (9.3%): Often related to space heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces.
3. Careless behavior (7.7%): Unintentional actions that lead to fires.
4. Electrical malfunctions (6.8%): From overloaded circuits to faulty wiring.

Data from United States Fire Administration (USFA).

Prevention Tips from a Fire Marshal

Cooking Safety

"Be present and aware when cooking," Weliver emphasizes. Most cooking fires start when food is left unattended. His advice is simple but crucial: avoid multitasking while cooking and stay in the kitchen, especially when using the stove.

Electrical Safety

Extension cords and multiplug adapters are common failure points. Weliver recommends:

• Never use extension cords as permanent wiring
• Avoid "daisy-chaining" multiple cords together
• Replace worn or damaged cords immediately
• Consult a licensed electrician for persistent circuit issues

Heating Safety

For space heaters, Weliver advises:

• Only use UL-listed devices
• Plug directly into wall outlets, never extension cords
• Keep other devices off the same circuit
• Maintain regular professional servicing of HVAC systems and clean chimneys

Smoking Hazards

While quitting smoking is the best prevention, those who smoke should do so outside and always properly dispose of smoking materials.

Beyond the Basics: Emerging Technologies

Weliver highlighted some promising technologies for enhanced fire safety:

1. Ting: A device that monitors your home's electrical system and alerts you to potential issues before they cause fires.
2. Automatic cooking fire suppression systems like Auto-Out, UL 300A, and Automist.
3. Residential sprinkler systems: Particularly cost-effective when installed during new construction.

The Importance of Daily Habits

The reminder that I appreciated the most was Weliver's emphasis that true fire prevention isn't about gadgets—it's about daily habits and routines. Creating a culture of safety in your home through awareness and consistent practices is the most effective way to prevent fires. Remember, as Weliver notes, most fire safety devices only alert you to or help suppress fires that have already started. The best strategy is preventing fires from occurring in the first place through vigilance and proper home maintenance.

Community Engagement

Waterloo Fire Rescue hosts open houses during EMS Week and Fire Prevention Week, typically drawing 400-500 visitors. They also maintain a series of educational videos on YouTube covering various fire safety topics. You can stay in the loop by following them on social media!

This blog post is based on an interview with Brock Weliver, Fire Marshal at Waterloo Fire Rescue, and reflects fire safety information specific to Waterloo, Iowa, though much of the advice applies universally.