Which of the following is a common cause of residential fires?

Cooking accidents are a leading cause of residential fires. This often occurs when food is left unattended on the stove or in the oven, leading to overheating and potential ignition of flammable materials nearby. The kitchen is typically the heart of a home, which makes it more susceptible to fire incidents due to the use of heat sources like stoves, ovens, and toasters. Furthermore, distractions can occur easily while cooking, increasing the likelihood of leaving something unattended that could catch fire.

While electrical failures, natural disasters, and poor ventilation can also contribute to residential fires, they are not as prevalent as cooking-related incidents. Electrical issues may arise from faulty wiring or malfunctioning appliances, but they are often less frequent in comparison to the everyday cooking activities that occur in homes. Natural disasters, like wildfires or floods, can certainly cause home fires, but they are not a common everyday occurrence for most residents. Poor ventilation can contribute to fire risks in certain situations, but it is less likely to be a direct cause of a fire compared to the frequency of cooking accidents.