In the U.S., fire departments respond to one fire every 88 seconds, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Cooking is the most common cause of home fires and smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. But there are many other ways that you could inadvertently start a fire. These are some of […]
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In the U.S., fire departments respond to one fire every 88 seconds, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Cooking is the most common cause of home fires and smoking is the leading cause of home fire deaths. But there are many other ways that you could inadvertently start a fire. These are some of the hidden fire sources in your home.

Don?t store batteries near metal. Image: Mariva2017/Shutterstock
Batteries
All batteries pose a fire risk, even those with a weak charge, according to Craig Gjelsten, VP of Operations at Rainbow International, which restores damage caused by fire, water and mold. Gjelsten says that 9-volt batteries are the biggest fire culprit. Since their terminals are in close proximity, they can easily short. ?I recommend a battery storage case or just leave batteries in their original packaging instead of lying around loose.?
Gjelsten also recommends storing batteries standing upright and placing electrical tape over the ends of each battery ? regardless of the battery type. Other tips include not storing batteries in metal containers or placing t...