PuroClean of Central Colorado Springs When you think of a house fire, you might picture a kitchen accident or an electrical short. But in Colorado Springs, our fires often start for reasons that surprise homeowners and it’s not just about carelessness.
Between our dry mountain air, gusty winds, and older housing stock, local conditions create the perfect storm for household fires. At PuroClean of Colorado Springs, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a spark can become a disaster, but also how much can be prevented with the right awareness.
Here’s what makes fire risk different in our area, and what you can do right now to protect your home.
1. Our Dry Mountain Air Turns Everyday Materials into Fuel
At 6,000+ feet, Colorado Springs’ air is crisp and dry year round and that’s part of the problem. Low humidity levels mean that wood, brush, and even fabrics dry out quickly, making them more flammable.
A stray ember from a backyard fire pit, a spark from a power tool, or even a cigarette tossed too close to a fence can ignite a fire in seconds, especially when those foothill winds pick up.
Prevention Tips
- Keep your landscaping trimmed and watered, especially near decks or fences.
- Maintain a clear zone of 3–5 feet around your home free of dry vegetation.
- Clean leaves and pine needles out of gutters and roof valleys often.
- Use spark guards on fire pits and grills, and keep them a safe distance from your house.
2. Hidden Dangers in Older Electrical Systems
Colorado Springs has no shortage of historic charm from Old North End to Manitou Springs, but with age often comes outdated wiring. Aluminum circuits, worn insulation, or overburdened outlets can silently overheat behind walls and start electrical fires.
Even newer homes can be at risk if overloaded with high-demand appliances or multiple extension cords.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Breakers trip frequently, or outlets feel warm.
- Lights dim when large appliances start.
- A faint burning smell with no clear source.
Preventive Action
- Have a licensed electrician perform a full inspection every 2–3 years.
- Avoid overloading circuits with multiple space heaters or large devices.
- Replace outdated panels and install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) for extra protection.
3. Cozy Habits That Carry Hidden Fire Risks
Colorado winters practically beg for cozy nights candles, space heaters, and crackling fireplaces. But these are some of the most common causes of residential fires in El Paso County each year.
Space heaters that tip over, candles left burning overnight, and overloaded power strips can all ignite flammable materials nearby.
Safety Reminders
- Always place space heaters 3 feet from furniture or curtains.
- Use battery-powered candles or flameless LEDs instead of open flames.
- Replace old holiday light strings with frayed cords.
- Never leave heaters or candles unattended, even for a few minutes.
4. Chimneys: The Fire Risk Hidden in Plain Sight
In the Springs, fireplaces are as common as mountain views, but creosote buildup inside chimneys is a major culprit behind winter house fires. When it ignites, it can send flames straight into your attic or walls.
Keep Your Chimney Safe
- Schedule annual professional cleanings before cold weather hits.
- Only burn dry, seasoned wood, not softwoods or trash.
- Use a chimney cap to prevent embers from escaping.
5. Wildfire and Ember Threats on the Urban Edge
Few cities straddle urban and wildland zones quite like Colorado Springs. Neighborhoods bordering Cheyenne Mountain, Black Forest, and Rockrimmon are part of what fire experts call the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) where forest meets community.
Here, even homes miles from the flames can be damaged by windblown embers and smoke infiltration.
Mitigation Tips
- Clear flammable vegetation within 30 feet of your home.
- Install ember-resistant vents and noncombustible roofing materials.
- Keep decks, fences, and outdoor furniture free of dry debris.
- Create an emergency plan in case of wildfire evacuation.
When Fire Strikes : PuroClean of Colorado Springs Is Ready
Even with the best prevention, fire can happen in an instant. That’s why PuroClean of Colorado Springs provides rapid response fire and smoke damage restoration throughout the region 24 hours a day.
Our IICRC-certified technicians specialize in restoring what matters most:
- Complete smoke and soot removal
- Odor elimination using hydroxyl and ozone technology
- Structural drying and water cleanup after firefighting
- Contents cleaning and storage for salvageable belongings
- Insurance coordination for a smoother claims process
Every restoration project is handled with care, empathy, and precision, ensuring your home is safe, clean, and livable again as quickly as possible.
At PuroClean of Colorado Springs, we don’t just clean up after fires, we help families reclaim their peace of mind.
Protect Your Home, Protect Your Community
Colorado Springs’ beauty comes with a cost, our dry air and mountain winds mean every homeowner must take fire prevention seriously.
With a little maintenance and awareness, you can greatly reduce your risk. And if disaster does happen, you have a trusted neighbor ready to help: PuroClean of Colorado Springs.
📞 Call us anytime at (719) 208-3773 or visit our Fire Damage Restoration Services page to learn more about how we can restore your home and your sense of comfort after a fire.
🔗 Helpful Resources
Ready Colorado: Home Fire Prevention and Safety Tips
Colorado Springs Fire Department: Wildfire Mitigation Programs
Colorado State Forest Service: Fire-Resistant Landscaping Guide
PuroClean of Central Colorado Springs 