Apartment living is gaining popularity in the US, with the demand reaching record-breaking numbers in 2024. According to RealPage, the market absorbed 488,773 units in the year-end Q3 of 2024. Among these, 192,649 units were absorbed between July and September alone.

This shows that people are willing to adopt the apartment lifestyle regardless of space constraints and other challenges. Fire is a significant risk apartment dwellers face, considering factors such as limited escape routes, design flaws, and lack of safety measures. Being prepared can keep you ahead of the threat.

Making your small apartment fire-safe is essential for protecting yourself, your loved ones, and your property. In this article, we will share a few insights into minimizing fire hazards and preparing for emergencies.

 

Avoid Clutter

Apartments are small by default, making them prone to clutter if residents like buying things. According to Clutter.com, the average size of a one-room unit ranges between 600 to 800 sq. feet. Two-bedroom units range between 900 to 1200 sq. feet, while three-bedroom units can go up to 1500 sq. feet.

Clutter is a significant fire hazard in such small spaces. Piles of clothing, papers, appliances, and other items can fuel a fire and block escape routes. Smart purging and organization of your living space can reduce this hazard.

Keep hallways, doorways, and windows clear at all times to ensure a quick exit if required. Regularly dispose of rubbish and useless stuff. Most importantly, avoid storing belongings in common stairways or corridors, as this can obstruct your escape and that of your neighbors.

 

Be Extra Cautious While Cooking

Kitchen fires are the leading cause of domestic fires in the US. According to the American Red Cross, fire departments in the country respond to as many as 170,000 fires reported due to cooking activities. A majority of these happen when people leave their stoves unattended during cooking.

Unfortunately, kitchens are often close to living and sleeping areas in apartments, increasing the risk for residents. Taking some precautions is the key to making your living space fire-safe. As a rule, you must never leave cooking unattended, particularly when using oil or high heat.

Keep flammable items like towels, paper, and curtains away from the stove. Always turn off burners and appliances after use. Know what to do if something goes wrong. For example, if a grease fire starts, never use water to extinguish it. Instead, cover the pan with a lid or use a fire extinguisher rated for kitchen fires.

 

Store Flammable Items Safely

Every home has some flammable materials that are used for purposes like cleaning and personal care. Unfortunately, many homeowners are not even aware of the possibility of fire due to these items. Improper storage of flammable materials is a big blunder as it can turn a small fire into a disaster.

Store cleaning products, solvents, and other flammable liquids away from heat sources such as stoves, heaters, and water heaters. This is even more crucial for apartment dwellers living in small spaces where things are close to each other.

Another practical tip is to avoid leaving items on continuous charge, such as e-cigarettes or phones. Keep matches, lighters, and candles out of reach of children and away from anything that could catch fire.

 

Invest in a Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver in the early stages of a fire, and every home should have one. Many apartment complexes have them installed in the common areas, but owning one gives you safety and peace of mind.

This Old House recommends an A:B:C fire extinguisher for homes as it can handle most types of household fires. Class A is apt for ordinary combustibles, class B for flammable liquids, and class C for electrical fires.

While fire extinguishers are saviors, they may also have some toxic ingredients. The ongoing AFFF lawsuits highlight the risks of PFAS chemicals or forever chemicals in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).

TruLaw reports that many firefighters have filed these lawsuits against foam manufacturers. They are claiming compensation for being exposed to toxic PFAS that led to severe diseases like cancer and organ damage.

Besides buying the right product, learn how to use it and keep it in an accessible location, such as the kitchen or near exits. Also, regularly check the pressure gauge and replace or service the extinguisher as needed.

 

Have an Evacuation Plan

Apartment fires are common, and they may happen despite the best precautions. Preparation is key to surviving such a situation. Develop a clear escape plan and make sure everyone in your home knows it. The last thing you want to deal with is creating an evacuation program for kids, pets, and seniors when your place is on fire.

Identify all possible exits, including windows, and ensure they can be easily opened in an emergency. The keys to doors and windows should be kept in a known, accessible location. Most homeowners struggle to find the keys every day, and the problem can be disastrous when an emergency strikes.

Having an escape plan is half the work; you must also practice it as a regular drill so you can act quickly under stress. When you exit amid a fire, close doors behind you as you leave to slow the spread of fire and smoke. Elevators are a no-no during a fire because they can become a deadly trap.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

 

Fire safety in a small apartment requires vigilance, preparation, and the right equipment. Taking precautions at your level is the right start. Besides implementing these measures, stay informed about your building's fire procedures. Also, communicate with neighbors to promote a culture of safety. With proactive steps and the right approach, you can make your small apartment a much safer place to live.