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Don’t Turn Your Sofa into a Fireball

It is a well-known fact that many household fires are caused by deep fat fryers that are heating up and left unattended, but a sofa can also be a fire hazard, especially if it was manufactured before strict regulations were put in place to ensure that upholstered furniture was as fire-resistant as possible. It goes without saying that the most dangerous thing someone can do on a sofa is smoke a cigarette. Sofas are for relaxing in, and many people find that they fall asleep as soon as they sit down – with a cigarette in their hands, the consequences can be horrific. In most cases, it’s the fumes given off by the burning upholstery that cause the most damage; they can even kill.

Furniture makers today are obliged to ensure that their products are as safe as possible. Fabric, by its nature, is very flammable. It can be treated to reduce its tendency to burst into flames, giving people the chance to escape before it’s too late, but this will only delay the inevitable. The risk can be reduced further by ensuring that only the most rigorously-tested furniture, from a reputable retailer, is purchased, but there are other factors to take into consideration. It’s no use buying the most fire-resistant sofa available, only to put the same old scatter cushions on it. To keep it as safe as possible, think of the other items that go on a sofa; besides cushions, throws are very popular, too. It is also important to make sure the sofa is placed at least three feet away from the source of any fire, however well-guarded the fire is; a coal or log fire can ‘spit’ burning embers that land outside the hearth in which it is sitting.

Guidance to Preventing Household Fires:

Some local fire services are happy to send officers round to your house to check for fire risks, and advise accordingly. Ensure that all upholstered furniture and soft furnishings comply with current fire safety regulations. Wherever practical, unplug appliances when not in use. Do not leave open fires, candles, or cookers unattended when in use. Roll sleeves up out of the way when cooking, and make sure flammable items, such as tea towels, are kept away from the cooker. Keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children. Do not smoke when sitting on a sofa or armchair, and don’t smoke in bed.
By following these rules, you will ensure that you keep your home, and family, as safe as possible from the threat of fire.