Causes and Symptoms of a Fire Accident

Fires can be a devastating event, destroying property and creating massive financial losses. They can also lead to serious injuries and even death. It’s important to be aware of the common causes and symptoms of a fire accident so that you can protect yourself in the event of one.

Smoking-related Fires

One of the most dangerous types of fires is those started by smoking materials, like cigarettes or lighters. These can quickly spread through a room, causing severe burns and even death. In addition, a fire caused by this type of material can be difficult to extinguish.

Often times, these fires are the result of carelessness, as people do not realize that they should keep their smoking materials away from where children and other people may be present. This is a very serious issue that should not be ignored.

Another common cause of a fire is carelessness in the handling and maintenance of electrical wires and gas lines in buildings, as these can be easily damaged by the heat and smoke that accompanies a fire. Keeping these items safe and in working order is critical to avoid a fire accident, as they can be extremely costly to repair.

Industrial Fires

Industrial and manufacturing facilities are some of the most susceptible to fires and explosions. In fact, these events cost billions of dollars to businesses and government entities every year.

There are many reasons why a fire can occur in the workplace, but some of the most common are:

Incorrect Storage of Combustible Materials

If a business has flammable materials such as cardboard, paper and wood, these items should be stored off-site to prevent a blaze. In addition, these items should be properly disposed of on a regular basis.

Human Errors in the Workplace

Despite the best efforts of managers and staff, accidents can still happen in the workplace. From the improper use of equipment or machinery to leaving cooking food unattended, errors in the workplace can make fires more likely.

As a result, it is essential for any business to follow the many codes and standards set forth to prevent fires and reduce their risk of occurring. Likewise, it is essential for employees to be fully trained and properly educated on these procedures.

Employees who witness a fire in the workplace can experience severe trauma. They may be anxious, depressed and experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that can negatively impact their ability to function in the workplace on a daily basis.

It is important for any victim of a fire accident to consult and retain an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the event has occurred to ensure that they receive the full compensation they deserve.

A successful fire accident claim requires a thorough investigation, which is essential to gather evidence from various sources. This includes interviews with witnesses, fire department and safety inspection reports as well as medical records.

The legal team at Shuman Legal(r) is highly experienced in assisting victims of workplace fires and can assist with the entire process to obtain the highest settlement possible for their case.