Hoarders Houses Are Fire Traps
London house clearance specialists Jeffrey Avery & Associates point out tht one of the main risks posed by compulsive hoarding is that of fire. The collections amassed by hoarders can be incredibly dangerous for them as hoarders and for neighbours due to the fire risks which they lead to, and sometimes the results can be tragic. A hoarder’s house clearance is the only way to reduce the risk of fire…..
Now, in an article in CommunityPress.Cincinnati.com, a fire inspector has spoken out about his experiences with hoarders, saying that they can be found in all demographics, rich or poor, male or female.
In the article, Bill Long describes hoarding as “like being an alcoholic”, following his experiences over a period of 40 years working for the Cincinnati Fire Department. Most of his experiences came during his period working in fire prevention.
Long felt sorry for the hoarders, saying how he “pitied them”. But he was also aware of the dangers they posed, especially for fire fighters, who could end up getting killed.
In the article he describes cases he experienced, such as the man who had so many books that he literally had to crawl over them to get around the house, as well as a property which had frozen cats inside.
The article goes on to look at treatment options for victims, and the fact that hoarding can be caused as a result of a loss or developed throughout adolescence.
Long also said, that when he found evidence of hoarding and wanted to enter a house, he would often not be allowed in because the hoarders were worried that he would force them to get rid of some of their items.
This is classic hoarding behaviour, as hoarders will often form such a strong bond with their possessions that to get rid of them would be traumatic. Indeed, there have been cases of suicides reported when hoarders have been forced to part with their possessions.
Overall, the article provides a fascinating insight into the real-life encounters with hoarding that many of us will never get to experience due to the secretive nature of the condition.
Do you own a property affected by hoarding? Call us immediately. Cleaning up a hoarding property is no easy feat, so make sure you only employ professionals. For discreet and confidential advice Call Jeffrey Avery directly on 0800 567 7769
