How to Avoid Fire Hazards in the Bedroom

Did You Know Half of All Home Fire Deaths Occur in Bedrooms?

Bedrooms are where we seek comfort and rest—but they’re also where many house fires tragically begin. According to national statistics, nearly 50% of all home fire deaths occur in sleeping areas. At PuroClean of Huntington, we’ve responded to numerous fire damage emergencies across Suffolk and Nassau County, and sadly, many of these incidents could have been prevented.

Fortunately, there are simple yet effective ways to reduce the risk of a bedroom fire. Here are some critical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe.

Electrical Safety Tips

Avoid running cords under the bed or rugs, as this can cause damage to the cord and lead to overheating. Trapping cords against a wall can also cause heat to build up. This is especially important in older homes throughout Suffolk County and areas like Huntington Station and Northport, where electrical systems may not have been updated.

Keep cords untangled and make sure they’re not pinched by furniture. Avoid overloading extension cords or outlets. If your bedroom doesn’t have enough outlets, consider having a licensed electrician install additional ones.

Space Heater Safety

If you use a space heater in the bedroom, turn it off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Place it on a solid, flat surface and keep it at least three feet away from anything flammable like curtains or bedding.

Many fire damage incidents we’ve responded to in Nassau County homes during winter were due to improper space heater use. Check the heater regularly for damage, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.

Electrical Outlet and Switch Safety

Install arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent fires caused by arcing. AFCIs detect dangerous electrical arcs and shut off the power before a fire can start. In homes across Long Island, particularly in towns like Commack or Melville, this simple upgrade can add an extra layer of protection.

If you have young children, install tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) in all rooms to prevent them from inserting objects into the outlets.

Charging Devices Safely

Don’t charge phones, tablets, or laptops under your pillow or on your bed. These devices can overheat and start a fire. Always place charging devices on a hard surface like a nightstand.

Avoid overcharging devices or leaving them plugged in overnight. Only use charging equipment that is certified and approved for your device. Throughout Suffolk and Nassau Counties, we’ve seen fires caused by off-brand chargers that failed or short-circuited.

Electric Blanket and Warmer Safety

Only purchase electric blankets or warmers that are tested by a qualified testing laboratory. Avoid secondhand electric bedding and never use one that is damaged.

Do not fold or bunch electric blankets during use, as this can damage the wiring. Keep them flat and turn them off when not in use. This is particularly important during colder months on Long Island, when these products are used more frequently.

Never use electric bedding near water or allow pets to lie on them, as their claws can puncture the wires. Always unplug the blanket or warmer when not in use.

General Fire Safety Tips

Keep flammable objects at least three feet away from heat sources, including space heaters, candles, and lamps. If you smoke, never do so in bed. Smoking materials are one of the leading causes of fatal residential fires.

Make sure your mattress is made after 2007 and is compliant with the Federal Mattress Flammability Standard. This can greatly reduce the risk of fire spreading in the event of an ignition.

Smoke Alarm Safety

Install smoke alarms in every bedroom and outside each sleeping area. Test your alarms once a month and replace batteries once a year. Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 10 years.

If you’re unsure whether your home in Nassau or Suffolk County meets these safety standards, PuroClean of Huntington can connect you with trusted local safety professionals.

Fire Escape Planning

Every bedroom should have two ways out, such as a door and a window. Practice your home fire escape plan with your family at least twice a year—once during the day and once at night. This is crucial in two-story homes or properties with basement bedrooms, common throughout many Long Island communities.

Contact PuroClean of Huntington for Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration

If your home suffers fire or smoke damage, PuroClean of Huntington is ready to help. We proudly serve homeowners and property managers throughout Suffolk and Nassau County with fast, professional fire and smoke damage restoration.

Call us today at 631-402-9700 or visit PuroClean of Huntington to learn more about our services.