Allstate: Texas House Fires Drop by 15%

The frequency of Texas home fires dropped 15 percent among Allstate customers during the first half of 2010, when compared to the same period last year. This decrease puts fire frequency back in line with historical levels, after Allstate saw a spike in the first half of 2009.

While weather related claims, like damage caused by wind and hail, tend to make up the most common and costly homeowner claims in Texas, Allstate analyzed non-weather related home fire claims to raise awareness about National Fire Prevention Month in October.

The Allstate data found the top fire-starters this year in Texas have been electrical fires throughout the home and grease fires started in the kitchen. Allstate surveyed 40 fire officials statewide to compare their most common fire causes. Most reported cooking and electrical hazards at the top of their list also.

Common hazards included overloading electrical outlets and the improper use of extension cords.

The Allstate survey of state fire officials found other common fire hazards are misused candles, cigarettes and space heaters. They also reported fires frequently start in the kitchen, followed by the bedroom.

The top three fire safety and prevention methods recommended by the surveyed departments are:

• Have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Have a fire extinguisher and know how to use it.
• Develop and practice an escape plan.

The surveyed fire departments were in the following cities or surrounding areas in Texas: Austin; Beaumont; Corpus Christi; Dallas-Fort Worth; El Paso; Houston; Laredo; Midland-Odessa; Rio Grande Valley; San Antonio; Tyler-Longview; and Waco.

Source: Allstate Corp.