How to Prevent Home Electrical Fires

Introduction:

Approximately 54,000 home electrical fires occur each year due to electrical failures or malfunctions of electrical equipment in the home. These type of home fires cause more than 600 deaths and 1,500 injuries that results in approximately    $1.5 billion in home property damage. Electrical fires are the leading types of home fires and this is especially so in factory manufactured homes.

Many of these home electrical fires can be prevented with some basic preventive electrical maintenance. More home electrical fires occur during the winter months when there is an increase in lighting, heating and appliance use. Many home electrical fires are caused by improper installation of electrical devices either by DIY homeowners or professional electricians.  

Some tips on how to prevent home electrical fires:

Extension Cords

·       Overloaded electrical circuits using extension cords are a common place for electrical fires to start. Refrain from using extension cords if at all possible. If you must use an extension cord avoid overloading with too many appliances. An overloaded extension cord can overheat and catch fire.

·       Do not place electrical cords under a carpet as it is a serious fire risk. If it is necessary inspect the cord for any damage once a month.

Electrical sockets and switches:

·       Warm electrical switches or sockets are a sign of a serious electrical problem. Have a professional electrician check the wiring.  

Flickering lights:

·       Flickering lights are a common lighting problem, however this doesn’t always mean that there is an electrical problem. A reoccurring flickering light should be checked as it could be caused by a loose wire connection. A loose wire can cause dangerous overheating. Have a professional electrician check any flickering lights to insure that there is no electrical problem.

Space heaters:

·       Space heaters often cause fires because they are ignored or not operated properly. Never leave a space heater unattended. Keep space heaters away from drapery or any other flammable items. Purchase only good-quality heaters and use them only when necessary.

Circuit breaker:

·       An overloaded circuit breaker box is dangerous. Have an electrician evaluate your circuit breaker box to check for overloaded circuits. Many homes are not built with a main electrical panel that is too small. The average home needs a 200 amp circuit breaker. If a circuit breaker is tripping when you place a load on the circuit it is probably because the circuit breaker is being overloaded. Have a professional check out any circuit breaker that continuous to trip.

Malfunctioning appliances:

·       Conduct a regular periodic inspection of all your appliances. A malfunctioning appliance could start an electrical fire. Check that the cords are intact and are in good condition.

 Children and electric safety:

·       Never allow children to play around electrical appliances.  Electrical appliances such as hair dryers and irons should be kept out of the reach of children.

Most home electrical fires can be prevented just by being cautious and performing periodic inspection of electrical appliances and extension cords.

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