We all use certain items regularly. Most of them will never present a problem, there are some that we should all use with a little extra caution. Here are some everyday items that are, or could be, highly flammable:
- Rubbing Alcohol – Rubbing alcohol is one of the most flammable items in people’s homes. It is used for many things around the house, but most people are not aware that it is flammable. The best way to prevent a fire involving rubbing alcohol is to keep it away from any open flames, and to make sure it isn’t near high heat or other flammable items.
- Aerosols – Aerosols are fairly common in our lives. They can be found in our homes, workplaces, and other public spaces in the form of air fresheners, deodorants, spray paints, etc. Make sure you use aerosols away from open flames and away from anything flammable. Aerosols can also combust when in high-temperature areas due to a combination of pressure and temperature.
- Mattresses – Ah, the place of rest. A mattress can easily catch fire, though. On average, they are linked to around 10,000 home fires per year, mostly due to candles burning beside the bed or smoking while in bed. Be aware of your surroundings and keep flammable items away from your bed to prevent a fire.
- Nail Polish – Have you ever noticed that most nail polishes and nail polish removers have a really strong smell? Most likely, that’s from acetone, one of the main ingredients in both. Since they’re on this list, you guessed it, they’re highly flammable. Acetone is like rubbing alcohol: keep away from open flames and other flammable items.
- Dryer Lint – Clean. Out. Your. Lint. Trap. Dryer lint can easily cause a fire, but such a fire is easily preventable. Cleaning the lint trap after every use of your dryer can help you avoid a major problem. The build up of this lint can cause the dryer to overheat, which would block the ducts and could result in a fire. A professional cleaning every couple of years is a good idea, as well.
- Cooking Oil – A dangerous part of the house? The kitchen. Outside of any other dangers (such as sharp objects and hot stoves), items as simple as cooking oil can cause problems. These oils are very flammable when overheated, which can result in large, severe fires. Don’t set your temperature too high when using something like a deep fryer and always have a fire extinguisher nearby (and make sure you know how to use it in an emergency). You should also never leave either the cooking oil OR any cooking food unattended.
Practicing fire safety plans and other drills are an important part of remaining safe. We should all take a few steps of caution when dealing with objects that can catch fire fast, as well, though. Part of that caution is simply knowing what you’re handling and the best ways to stay safe while using those items.