PMC Insurance

REAL-LIFE CLAIMS

Learning from losses

 

 

Garage destroyed, house damaged in block heater blaze

Location:  City home.

Cause of loss:  Fire caused by a faulty block heater cord.

Cost of loss:  $160,000 in damage.

Details of loss:  The insured got up in the morning and went in to the attached garage to plug in a vehicle so it would be warm for the drive to work.  About an hour later, the insured went to get the newspaper and noticed smoke coming from the garage.  An attempt was made to extinguish the fire but was unsuccessful.  Emergency services was called and the fire department responded, but the garage was completely destroyed.  The rest of the house suffered major fire, smoke and water damage.  It was determined the fire was caused by the block heater cord.

Lessons learned:  Have your vehicle serviced regularly, including your block heater.  Make sure your vehicle's extension cord is rated for the amperage of your block heater and is in good condition -- with no frays, cuts or other damage.  Always disconnect cords by holding the plug and not be pulling on the cord.

Source:  SGI's the Broker, Fall 2012