Every third house fire is caused by electricity. Particularly risky: tumble dryers, washing machines, multiple sockets. Defective cables, heat build-up and cheap devices increase the risk. With tested quality, correct use and simple precautionary measures, the risk can be significantly reduced.
Electricity is the most common cause of fire in the home
Whether cooking, washing or styling – electrical devices are an integral part of everyday life. But everyday helpers pose a high risk: electricity is one of the most common causes of house fires. According to BR, around 32 percent of all fires in your own home are caused by electricity. Common triggers are defective cables, short circuits or overloaded multiple sockets that heat up unnoticed. According to Merkur, even small devices such as hair dryers or straighteners can become dangerous if they are used improperly or forgotten.
The most dangerous electrical devices according to statistics
Some electrical appliances in the home pose a significantly higher risk of fire than others. According to BR, the tumble dryer is undisputed at the top of the danger list. The combination of intense heat development, electrical components and residual moisture creates ideal conditions for a fire – especially if the device is left unattended. Washing machines and dishwashers are also at great risk: this is where water, electricity and moving parts come together, which can quickly lead to short circuits or overheating in the event of a defect. There are also refrigerators, televisions and stoves, which should also not be underestimated. Technical defects, heat build-up or improper use also make them potential sources of fire.
Hidden risks due to incorrect use
The risk of fire often arises not only from defective devices, but also from their incorrect use. As the BR warns, even the standby operation of individual devices can lead to gradual overheating – even if they appear to be “off”. It also becomes critical if televisions, stereo systems or other heat-generating devices are operated in closed cupboards, as the heat can build up there. It is also particularly risky not to unplug your hairdryer or straightener: according to Merkur, moisture or a technical defect can quickly lead to a short circuit. And even multiple sockets that have been used for years and are left unattended behind furniture can develop into dangerous fire sources over time.
Cheap devices and poor safety standards
The quality of the devices also plays a crucial role in safety. According to BR, cheap products are often poorly manufactured, which makes them more susceptible to overheating, broken cables or technical defects. In order to reduce the risk, the BR recommends paying attention to tested quality when purchasing – for example, devices with a GS, VDE or TÜV seal. However, the CE mark alone does not offer absolute security, as it is only a self-declaration by the manufacturer and can even be fake.
Preventive measures against house fires
With simple precautionary measures, the risk of fire can be significantly reduced. The BR advises that electrical devices should always be disconnected from the power supply if you are away for a long time or overnight – this will prevent them from overheating in standby mode or due to technical defects. It is equally important not to overload multiple sockets and to check them regularly for damage. Smoke detectors should also be installed not only in living rooms and bedrooms, but also in basements or utility rooms in order to detect fires at an early stage. In the kitchen, a so-called stove guard, as recommended by the Unterföhring fire department, can provide additional protection: It monitors the hob and automatically switches off the power in the event of danger.
Editorial team finanzen.net
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