Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires in Your Home or Building

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When most people think of electricity in their homes or commercial properties, they tend to think of common electrical appliances. However, electricity is everywhere, running through the walls and to the corners of your kitchen cabinets. This increases the risk of potential harm from electricity.

Despite fire safety measures, electrical fires in homes can start spontaneously without warning and spread quickly. Home electrical fires can be devastating. Not only do these fires threaten the well-being and safety of building occupants and families in the surrounding area, they can also damage or destroy property in a short period.

Luckily, there's plenty that premises managers, homeowners, and landlords can do to minimize the risk of a destructive fire breaking out on their premises. We will explain how electrical fires start or what may cause them. You will learn how to prevent electrical fires at home or in your office and how best to tackle a dangerous electrical fire should one start.

Common Causes of an Electrical Fire

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 31,000 home electrical fires occur on a yearly basis. With more than 180 cases involving electrocution and electricity-related incidents that could've been easily avoided, commercial or home electrical safety is simply too important to overlook. Damaged or faulty wiring and other electrical equipment cause 69% of electrical fires in homes, followed by lamps, cords, light fixtures, plugs, and other power supplies.

  • Overloaded circuits - Having too many appliances or devices plugged in, like smartphones, into one outlet or circuit strains the system, overheating wires and sparking fires.
  • Faulty wiring - Damaged or outdated wiring poses a constant fire hazard. Frayed insulation, cracks, and loose connections can create sparks and ignite surrounding materials.
  • Extension cord misuse - Overburdened, damaged, or poorly connected extension cords are a recipe for disaster. Use them sparingly and only for temporary needs.
  • Appliance malfunctions - Worn-out appliances with frayed cords, overheating components, or cracked plugs pose a fire risk.
  • Heat sources near wires - Keep wires away from flammable materials. Curtains, carpets, and furniture, to name a few! Heat can easily melt the insulation and expose bare wires, sparking fires.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

Electrical fire safety is crucial to prevent an electrical fire. It is crucial to learn to recognize the warning signs, such as strange sounds, which indicate a possible electrical or wiring problem in your home or office.

Contact a licensed and experienced electrician immediately to assess and fix electrical problems and perform electrical system maintenance if you experience one or more of the following issues in your commercial building or home:

» Buzzing or Humming Sounds

These can indicate faulty wiring or overloaded circuits.

» Discolored Outlets

Discoloration or scorch marks may suggest that switches and outlets are overheating and, hence, may lead to potential electrical fire damage. So, if you notice these marks, please report them for quick action.

» Warm Outlets or Switches

This is another red flag and should be addressed as soon as possible.

» Flickering Lights

Remember, frequent flickering of lights, especially with a burning smell, could indicate an imminent electrical fire hazard. Common culprits include faulty wiring, loose connections, or overloaded circuits.

Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires in Your Home

Preventing electrical fires entails taking electrical safety precautions and being vigilant.

» Don't Overload Circuits

Be mindful of what you plug into each outlet. Refrain from exceeding the recommended wattage or using adapters to force extra plugs.

» Unplug Devices and Appliances

One of the most straightforward and practical electrical safety tips is usually the easiest to forget. When an appliance, like a toaster, is not in use, consider unplugging it to conserve energy. Unplugging devices not only saves you power by lowering any phantom drain but also protects them from power surges or overheating.

» Replace Outdated Wiring

Is your home's wiring older than 20 years? Consider having it inspected and replaced by professional electricians if necessary.

» Carefully Place Flammable Items

Don't place furniture, decorations, curtains, boxes, or other flammable items too close to or in front of an outlet. Many outlets tend to generate an unnoticeable or low amount of heat. However, if they are faulty or overloaded, they may produce much more heat, causing sparks and starting a fire.

» Use Surge Protectors

One of the simplest fire prevention tips is to protect your electronics from power surges with surge protectors.

» Keep Cords Tidy and Store Them Safely

Electrical fire safety tips don't simply apply to power cords when you use them—cords also have to be stored safely and properly to prevent damage. Avoid running cords under rugs or carpets, and keep them from being pinched by furniture. Keep all stored cords away from kids and furry pets (who may play with or chew them).

» Teach and Prioritize Safety

Educate your family members about electrical safety and the importance of responsible practices. Consider making it a family activity so that everyone knows these fire safety tips. Also, schedule an electrical inspection or electrical building code inspection.

Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires at Your Workplace

  • Have qualified and trained electricians inspect electrical equipment and wiring annually.
  • Train employees on proper and safe use of electrical equipment and safe electrical practices.
  • Regularly check for overloaded circuits and tripped breakers.
  • Don't ignore seemingly innocuous warning signs like humming or sparking. Promptly report them to maintenance.
  • Ensure your office equipment and workstations, including laptops and printers, have adequate surge protection against power fluctuations.
  • Keep flammable materials like cleaning supplies and chemicals away from electrical equipment and wires.

What to Do if There's an Electrical Fire

Electrical fires can be destructive and terrifying, but if you know what to do, you can minimize the damage and keep everyone in your home or office safe. Stay calm and evacuate the building immediately.

  • Call the fire department or 911 from a safe location.
  • Do not attempt to fight the fire yourself.
  • Close all doors and windows to contain the fire.
  • If it is safe, turn off the power at the main breaker panel.

Why Regular Electrical Maintenance is Important

Besides relying on tips for preventing electrical fires at home, don't ignore the significance of regular electrical inspections and maintenance by qualified and trained electricians. They are crucial for identifying and addressing potential fire hazards. Making sure to schedule regular maintenance can significantly lower the risk of electrical fires, ensuring the safety of your home or workplace.

Summing Up

Electrical fires are amongst the most dangerous and common forms of combustion because of how quickly they can grow out of control. However, by following the above fire safety tips, you can help minimize the risk of an electrical fire in your office or home. By understanding the risks and implementing regular maintenance, you can ensure that the comforting hum of electricity remains a reliable background to your life, not a prelude to tragedy.

Electron NY provides professional and affordable electrical inspection, maintenance, and repair services in Long Island and surrounding areas that ensure your wiring and appliances are in good, safe condition. If you are concerned about the risk of an electrical fire, call them today at 631-366-7151 or schedule an appointment to do a thorough home electrical inspection.

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