Home fires are one of the most common homeowners insurance claims, but many are preventable. Understanding the top causes of house fires and taking simple safety steps can help protect your home, family, and finances.
Why Home Fire Prevention Matters in Santa Ana
Home fires remain one of the most damaging and costly losses for homeowners. In Santa Ana, California, where many homes share walls, older electrical systems, or close spacing, a small fire can quickly spread and cause extensive damage.
The good news? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), many house fires are preventable with awareness and basic precautions.
Below are the top eight reasons homes catch fire—and what you can do to help reduce the risk.
1. Candles
More than half of candle-related fires start when candles are placed too close to flammable items.
Prevention tips:
- Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn
- Never leave a candle burning in an empty room
- Use sturdy candle holders that won’t tip
- Blow out candles before sleeping or leaving home
2. Smoking
Smoking materials cause thousands of home fires each year, resulting in significant property damage and loss of life.
Prevention tips:
- Smoke outside whenever possible
- Use deep, sturdy ashtrays
- Never smoke in bed or on upholstered furniture
- Double-check for smoldering cigarette butts
3. Electrical and Lighting Issues
Electrical fires often result from overloaded outlets, faulty wiring, or overheating appliances.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords
- Turn off decorative or halogen lights when unattended
- Schedule periodic electrical inspections, especially in older homes
4. Dryers and Washing Machines
Lint buildup and mechanical failures make laundry areas a common source of fires.
Prevention tips:
- Clean the lint trap after every dryer load
- Never operate the dryer without a lint screen
- Ensure dryer vents are clear and vented outside
- Keep flammable items away from laundry appliances
5. Lightning
Lightning strikes cause tens of thousands of fires each year across the U.S.
Prevention tips:
- Avoid using electronics during storms
- Unplug major electronics when possible
- Use surge protectors to reduce damage risk
6. Children Playing With Fire
Children unintentionally start thousands of home fires annually.
Prevention tips:
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach
- Teach children basic fire safety early
- Provide proper supervision
7. Christmas Trees
Dry Christmas trees combined with lights and decorations can ignite quickly.
Prevention tips:
- Keep trees well watered
- Turn off lights before bed or leaving home
- Inspect lights for damaged cords or shorts
- Dispose of trees once they become dry
8. Cooking
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires, especially when food is left unattended.
Prevention tips:
- Stay in the kitchen while cooking
- Never pour water on a grease fire—cover it with a lid instead
- Turn off the oven and keep the door closed if a fire starts
- Keep flammable items away from the stove
Extra Safety Steps Every Santa Ana Homeowner Should Take
- Install and maintain working smoke detectors
- Keep a fire extinguisher accessible
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan
Why Fire Prevention Matters for Home Insurance
Fire damage is one of the most serious homeowners insurance claims. While insurance helps with recovery after a covered loss, prevention helps avoid the disruption altogether.
Understanding risks, maintaining your home, and reviewing your coverage regularly are all part of responsible homeownership.
How Neighborhood Insurance Agency Can Help
Established in 1989, Neighborhood Insurance Agency is a trusted local provider in Santa Ana, California. We help homeowners understand their insurance coverage, identify potential gaps, and make informed decisions about protecting their homes.
Because knowing you’re prepared is the key to your peace of mind.
👉 Get a quote or talk to us today.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Reference
National Fire Protection Association. (2025). Home Structure Fires. Retrieved from https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/research/nfpa-research/fire-statistical-reports/home-structure-fires
Insurance Information Institute. (2026). Which disasters are covered by homeowners insurance?. Retrieced from https://www.iii.org/article/which-disasters-are-covered-by-homeowners-insurance
