Home Appliances. They make domestic life so easy, but they also come with a host of potential hazards and insurance worries.

Consider these statistics from the Consumer Products Safety Commission on the dangers of household appliances:

• Major appliances are involved in more than 150,000 residential fires each year.
• They cause over $547 million in damages annually.
• A reported 150 deaths and 3,670 injuries were attributed to appliances in the commission’s most recent study.

But that’s where insurance agents can help. By understanding the potential drawbacks and hazards of appliances, one can make better safety decisions and avoid the worst from happening.

Any type of appliance – from washers and dryers to refrigerators and dishwashers – can start a fire if not properly maintained.

Take the laundry room, for example. In 2010, washers and dryers were the cause of roughly 16,800 structure fires, resulting in $236 million in property damage. The most common reason for dryer fires is simply failing to clean them.

Proper cleaning of washers and dryers includes the removal of lint from filters before and after use, as well as sufficient covering of outside vents. Also be sure to check the connections to the dryer are not crushed against the wall.

In the kitchen, microwave and toaster ovens can be hazardous if not properly maintained. Crumbs should be regularly removed from toasters and microwaves. These appliances should also be attended to when in operation.

Turn off electrical and gas appliances when going on a trip. Such foresight could make a return home less disheartening.

While appliances make our lives easier, they clearly also come with great responsibility. It’s up to us to make sure our homes and businesses are regularly checked for safety hazards.

Check with a Glenn Insurance agent today to make sure you are covered in the event of an appliance mishap.