Collecting trouble: hoarder homes at greater risk of fire

The St. John's Regional Fire Department is warning hoarders their piles of collectibles createfire hazards, and often puts home owners and firefighters at risk.

"There are issues with mobilitywithin the house for the individual and for first responders," says platoon chief Rick Dehann.

St John's Morning Show5:45Hoarding

If you've ever been inside the home of a hoarder, you know that counters, sinks, desks and all other surfaces are usually stacked with stuff. And the The St. John's Fire Department says that creates piles of fire hazards. In a release sent out on Monday

He added obstructed escape routes aren't the only concern.

"The more materials within a structure, the greater the heat release, the smoke and toxin releases," said Dehann.

"So of course that can be detrimental to an individual attempting to escape a burning structure."

Complex mental health issue

While some may see hoarding as a bad and messy habit, registered psychologist Janine Hubbard saidit'sa complex mental health issue that affectstwo to sixper cent of the population.

"[Hoarding] involves persistent difficulties discarding or parting with items regardless of value," saidHubbard, adirector with the Association of Psychology Newfoundland and Labrador.

Hoarding often startsduring childhood and worsens as a person ages, she added.

It's now considered an obsessive-compulsive disorder and is included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) used by psychiatrists to diagnose mental illness.

Hubbard saidhoarders feel "a strong need to save items, a strong attachment to items and there's a fair bit of distress associated with getting rid of those items."

Helping a hoarder

While some people who hoard may not feel they have a problem, their behavior can be distressing to others, includingfamily, friends and landlords.

If you suspect someone you know is a hoarder, Hubbard suggests seeking professional help.

Hubbardaddedoffering to help tidy up can be beneficial, but it's best to approach the person with concerns about safety, not with concerns about the appearance of their home.

"Keep an eye for warning signs like family and friends who suddenly aren't letting you into the house," saidHubbard.

Tips fromfire department

In order to reduce the risk of fire, the St. John's Fire Department suggests keeping cooking areas clear.

In addition,sorting and recycling highly combustible mail and newspapers often will reduce risk.

Make sure all escape routes are kept clear at all times.