Hoarding and Fire Safety with SERVPRO® of Springfield

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

Photo Credit: Newscom Hoarding is a major fire concern!

SERVPRO® of Springfield would like to remind the community that hoarding can cause a serious safety and fire risk. Hoarding is defined as collecting or keeping large amounts of various items in the home due to strong urges to save them or distress experienced when discarding them. Many rooms in the home are so filled with possessions that residents can no longer use the rooms as designed. The home is so overloaded with things that everyday living is compromised.

When a home is overwhelmed by hoarding, the home becomes unsafe. The large piles of personal belongings make it difficult to navigate around the home and can lead to injury. The piles can also block windows and doors making it difficult to get in and out of a home. Blocked doors and windows can prevent help from being able to enter the home. Fires can also start by having personal items too close to cooking or heating equipment. It takes only a small spark to ignite flammable items. Remember to always keep a clear 3 foot space around cooking and heating equipment.

Keep yourself and those you love safe and be aware of an escape plan for your home and ensure that all fire alarms are in proper working order.

If a fire damage does occur, call SERVPRO® of Springfield at 217-528-7775.

Source: www.nfpa.org