US Sees 47,000 Annual Electrical Home Fires Causing 300 Deaths, $1.2B Damage

October is Fire Prevention Month, emphasizing the importance of reviewing fire safety practices at home to protect lives and property. The National Fire Protection Association warns that nearly 19% of households lack a functional smoke alarm, which is crucial for early fire detection. Electrical fires are a major concern, with around 47,000 incidents annually in the U.S. causing significant casualties and damage, but many can be prevented through proper electrical inspections, smoke alarm installation and maintenance, and avoiding common hazards like overloaded outlets and faulty appliances. Advances in home fire safety technology include smart smoke detectors from brands like Ring and Kidde, which offer app alerts and monitoring features to enhance early warning capabilities. However, some communities face ongoing fire risks due to power lines near homes, as seen in Florida where residents are concerned about overgrown vegetation on preserves near power infrastructure posing fire hazards, with utility companies limited in their ability to mitigate these risks.