Unusual Causes of Fires: 7 Surprising Stories That Will Leave You in Awe

Fires can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are unexpected and even bizarre. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven unusual causes of fires that will surprise you. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent fires from happening and protect your home or business.

Spontaneous Combustion

You may have heard of spontaneous combustion, but did you know it can be a fire hazard? Spontaneous combustion happens when a material ignites on its own without any external ignition source. In some cases, a pile of oily rags left in a garage or shed can spontaneously combust and catch fire.

Prevention Tip: Store oily rags and other flammable materials in a cool, dry place, and dispose of them properly.

 

Hoverboard Explosion

Hoverboards were once a popular gift item, but they also caused numerous fires due to faulty batteries. In some cases, the batteries overheated and caught fire while the hoverboards were charging or in use.

Prevention Tip: If you own a hoverboard, make sure it has been tested and certified by a reputable organization, and avoid leaving it unattended while charging.

 

Burning Ants

It might sound like a harmless prank, but using a magnifying glass to burn ants can actually start a fire. In one case, a child accidentally started a grass fire while playing with a magnifying glass.

Prevention Tip: Supervise children when they are playing with magnifying glasses or other potentially hazardous objects.

 

Sunlight Through Glass

Sunlight can be magnified and focused by the glass, causing objects to catch fire. In some cases, a mirrored dresser or other reflective surfaces can cause a fire due to sunlight reflecting through a window.

Prevention Tip: Be mindful of where you place reflective objects and consider installing window films or shades to reduce sunlight exposure.

 

Spilled Wine

Alcohol is flammable, and a spilled glass of wine can be enough to start a fire. In one case, a glass of wine spilled on a laptop keyboard causing a fire to spread to a nearby couch.

Prevention Tip: Avoid bringing flammable liquids near electronic devices and other heat sources.

 

Vape Pen Explosion

E-cigarettes and vape pens have become popular, but they also pose a fire risk due to their lithium-ion batteries. In one incident, a vape pen exploded in a man’s pocket, causing severe burns and starting a fire.

Prevention Tip: Use caution when charging or using vape pens and other electronic devices with lithium-ion batteries, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

 

Dust Buildup

Dust might seem harmless, but it can accumulate in hard-to-reach places and become a fire hazard. In one case, a dust buildup in an attic caused a fire that destroyed the entire house.

Prevention Tip: Regularly clean and maintain your home or business, especially in areas that are prone to dust buildup.

 

Fires can start from unexpected sources, and it’s important to be aware of potential hazards and take precautions to prevent them. Some simple steps you can take include installing smoke detectors, avoiding flammable materials, and maintaining electrical appliances.

At Fire Prevention and Consultancy Services, we are committed to helping you stay safe from fires. Our team of experts can provide fire safety assessments, training, and consulting services to ensure that your home or business is well-protected. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you prevent fires and keep your property and loved ones safe.