What is the most common cause of house fires?

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of house fires in the United States. Unattended cooking and cooking equipment left on are the top contributors to these fires.

Other common causes of house fires include heating equipment (such as space heaters), electrical issues (such as faulty wiring), smoking, and candles.

Preventing house fires starts with taking precautions in the kitchen. Never leave cooking food unattended, and always keep a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen. Be sure to maintain heating equipment and electrical systems regularly, and avoid overloading outlets or using damaged cords. Smoke detectors should be installed throughout the home and tested regularly. It's also important to have a fire escape plan in place and to practice it with family members regularly.