The Gilbert Fire and Rescue Department is sharing some of the top causes of home fires in Gilbert.

Lithium-ion Batteries

When damaged or not stored properly, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch fire, and cause explosions. These fires often happen due to overcharging, completely draining the battery, or exposure to heat, cold, or water.

Those who wish to learn more and register an electric vehicle or solar panel system can do so at gilbertaz.gov/BatterySafety

Exhaust Fans

The department advises residents to never use bathroom or laundry room fans as white noise while sleeping. Running them too long can pose a fire hazard. Regularly inspect and clean all exhaust fans to ensure they’re working safely.

Unattended Cooking and Candles

If a resident leaves the room, he or she should turn off the stove and blow out any candles as it only takes a moment for a fire to start.

Discarded Fireworks

After the celebration, residents should soak fireworks in water for at least 24 hours, double-wrap them in plastic before throwing them away, and keep their trash bin at least three feet from the house.

It is also important to ensure a home’s smoke alarms are properly installed and maintained in case of a fire. The department advises residents to follow these four safety tips and guidelines:

1. Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level of the home.
2. Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.
3. Change the batteries and clean alarms yearly. Set a calendar reminder on a phone so is not forgotten.
4. Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or sooner if they stop responding. Check the manufacturer date on the back.

Residents can follow Gilbert Fire and Rescue on Instagram and Facebook for more safety tips and resources.

Those who would like more fire prevention tips can also visit gilbertaz.gov/Fire.