Risk of fire in winter: keys to prevention and protection

In recent days, Buenos Aires has been the scene of several building fires. This raises a key question: is there a relationship between these fires and the time of the year? During the winter, urban fires tend to increase due to the intensive use of heating systems and the decrease of ventilation in the environments. In this article, we tell you why this season requires more attention and how to reinforce prevention in your building.

📍 Recoleta - Av. Callao 1421 (June 30)

A fire broke out on the second floor of a residential building, with flames visible from the street. It was controlled by firefighters before spreading. One man suffered minor burns and 14 people were assisted for smoke inhalation.

📍 Slaughterhouses - Gomería incendiada (June 30)

On the same day, another fire affected a rubber store, where stored tires caught fire. Although there were no casualties, the damage was significant and neighboring premises were put at risk.

📍 Parque Avellaneda - House type PH with deck storage (June 30).

During the early morning hours, a fire in a house that also served as a warehouse resulted in one fatality, one injured and more than 20 dead animals. The magnitude of the fire forced the intervention of rescuers.

📍 Parque Avellaneda - Second focus (June 30)

In parallel to the previous case, another fire was reported in the neighborhood where a man was rescued and treated for smoke intoxication.

During the winter, the daily habits we adopt to keep warm can inadvertently increase the risk of fires in our homes or buildings.

• One of the main factors is the intensive use of domestic heating systems. domestic heating systemsOne of the main factors is the intensive use of domestic heating systems: electric radiators, stoves, heating blankets or heaters connected for long periods of time, often without supervision, can generate overloads in the electrical network or cause short circuits. In some cases, these appliances are connected to extensions or multiple sockets without adequate protection, which increases the danger.

• This is compounded by the lack of adequate ventilationa common practice in winter to conserve heat. However, keeping rooms closed favors the accumulation of carbon monoxide -a highly toxic and odorless gas- and, in case a fire starts, the smoke cannot dissipate quickly, which reduces visibility, hinders evacuation and enhances inhalation damage.

• Another critical point is electrical carelessness. The increased use of high consumption devices, such as water heaters, electric ovens or air conditioners in heating mode, accelerates the wear and tear of the installations. The typical winter humidity can further affect the insulation of cables and connections, generating short circuits or sparks that, in contact with flammable materials, can start a fire.

• Periodic inspections of electrical installations and heating systems by certified professionals.
• Active detectorsSmoke detectors: place smoke detectors in corridors and halls, and check their operation on a monthly basis.
• Exit maintenanceKeep stairways, corridors and emergency exits clear, even in winter.
• Strategic ventilationdaily airing of spaces, even in cold weather, to avoid accumulation of gases.
• Training and drillsorganize workshops with firefighters or brigade members to learn about critical points, use of fire extinguishers and evacuation routes.

Winter brings us face to face with an inescapable reality: fire risks in homes and buildings are increasing. In the face of this scenario, prevention is fundamental, but not enough. Being properly insured is what guarantees real protection.

At Hanseaticawe accompany our clients with Fire Insurance designed for every need: from individual apartments to to complete consortiumsincluding also single-family homes. We offer wide coverage, immediate support and a specialized team that advises you every step of the way.

Because when it comes to taking care of what you value most, the best decision is to anticipate.

Get to know our fire coverages and ensure your peace of mind.
Contact us at y protect your space with the support of experts.

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