Moisture, short-circuiting, circuit overloading, and improper cleaning and maintenance are only a few of the causes of fires that start from electrical appliances at home. All these causes are due to human negligence. The National Fire Protection Association, in a report released just last month, revealed that in 2007 seventy eight percent of all fires in the US occur in residential structures, and eighty four percent of all civilian fire deaths occur at home.

You can keep yourself, your family, and your home safe from fire and fire damage by following the following care and maintenance guidelines for your electrical appliances:

Oven ranges

Your oven range is a big risk for fire damage because of the frequency it is used every day. Follow the following guidelines to reduce fire damage risk:

* Always keep your oven and stovetop clean.

* Don't let grease accumulate on the surfaces and on the coils.

* Store flammable items such as your hot pad or kitchen towels away from the burner.

* When you are cooking and are called away, don't leave the food unattended while the stove is on. Turn it off.

* Don't use spray aerosols such as non-stick products or air fresheners near the flames.

* When you are cooking, turn the pot handle inwards so that it will not be hit by anyone who walks by the stove.

* Don't wear long-sleeved clothing when you're cooking; if your sleeves are caught in the flames you will burn yourself.

* Inspect the electrical cords and gas connections periodically for damage and any deterioration due to constant use.

Ovens and microwave ovens

Microwave ovens are much like traditional ovens, and can cause fire damage if they are not used properly. Microwave ovens are more sensitive than traditional ovens, so be sure you use your unit properly:

* Don't use the oven if the door is bent, warped, or damaged and cannot be closed properly.

* Don't operate an oven without anything in it.

* Avoid standing in front of the microwave oven when you're heating something. If it explodes, you're likely to be hit.

* When you are heating liquids, don't overheat them because they may erupt.

* Never use metal pans and utensils in your microwave oven. You will not only destroy the utensils, you will destroy the appliance too.

* Always make sure the oven is clean and debris-free.

* Check your microwave oven periodically to make sure there are no leaks. Use an FDA-approved testing device for this.

Clothes dryers

The U.S. Consumer Safety Commission estimates that every year, close to 16,000 fires are caused by clothes dryers. Fire damage from clothes dryers can be avoided by the following:

* Clean the lint filter after every load. Don't forget to check the back of the dryer too for additional lint.

* Periodically clean the dryer vent. This will increase the air flow, reduce drying time, and reduce the risk of a fire.

* Use fireproof metal exhaust hoses and vents in your dryer, not substandard quality ones.

* Don't dry fabrics that have been exposed to flammable chemicals such as solvents, oils, or gasoline.

* Read your user's manual and follow the manufacturer's guidelines carefully.

* Follow the warning labels on the machine.

Space heaters

Sometimes, when it is extremely cold, additional sources of heat such as space heaters are handy. However, they pose a risk of fire damage if not used properly. Space heaters cannot just be placed anywhere in the house; your operating manual will tell you where it should be placed and how to use it. These additional tips may help to avoid fire damage:

* Read the operating manual before you use your heater.

* Don't place the heater near water or any source of it; otherwise, you are placing yourself in risk of electrocution.

* Place the heater at least three feet away from any combustible materials such as draperies and furniture.

* When you buy a space heater, make sure it has a heat element guard and an automatic cut-off switch.

* Inspect the appliance and cords before every use.

* Avoid using extension cords with your space heater.

* Unplug the unit after you are finished using it.

There are many more electrical appliances that can cause fire if these are not used properly. Careful use and diligent maintenance are important. Keep your home safe from fire damage by taking good care of your electrical appliances.