How hoarding can be dangerous

10/2/2020 (Permalink)

Hoarding situations can easily lead to very unsafe living environments. Most will think that the situations are unhealthy due to being unsanitary. However, that is only of many parts that make hoarding situations unsafe.

Fire hazards are one of the most important safety matters regarding hoarding. In homes that have baseboard or wall heaters you do not want to leave anything within 12 inches of the heater. Bathroom fans are also the cause to many fires. Ensure to clean your bathroom fans regularly as to avoid a fire. Frayed and exposed wires can spark loose debris and paper products. The weight of objects on electrical wires can deteriorate their integrity and cause fires as well.

Cooking on an open flame range or stove stop can also cause a fire if left unattended. Having doors or entryways blocked is a common issue when house fires occur in a hoarding situation. It is also difficult for the fire department or EMTs to enter the home if there is not sufficient space for their equipment.