Taking Precautions Can Help Prevent Electrical Fires

FORT WORTH, Texas - April 24, 2013 - PRLog -- Electrical distribution systems are the third leading cause of unintentional home structure fires. Electrical fires kill more than 300 people each year, and another 1000 are injured as a result.

According to the US Fire Safety Administration, “During a typical year, home electrical problems account for 26,100 fires and $1 billion in property losses. About half of all residential electrical fires involve electrical wiring.”

Taking precautions to avoid this kind of fire is essential, especially as summer approaches.  

Electrical fire can be especially dangerous, due to the fact that they can be difficult to extinguish. Standard extinguishing methods such as water or foam are ineffective, and in fact make the situation worse.

The US Fire Safety Administration offers some valuable information to help with fire prevention. Their website offers some important advice: “Never overload circuits or extension cords. Do not place cords and wires under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. Immediately shut off and unplug appliances that sputter, spark or emit an unusual smell. Have them professionally repaired or replaced.”

Electrical fires may be caused by improper wiring, electrical overload, or malfunctioning power outlets.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International says that electrical fires can often be prevented. “The good news is that many home electrical fires can be prevented if you are able to recognize the warning signs your home may be showing. The most important step you can take is to learn about your home’s electrical system. Once you are familiar with your system and how it works, you will be better able to identify potential hazards.”

All flammable material should be kept away from electrical connections. Having appliances and electronics inspected regularly is important. Frayed wiring or worn out components should be replaced with new components. Have light switches professionally inspected if they are hot to the touch or if the lights start flickering.

As a precautionary measure, it’s important that all homes have working smoke detectors, and an emergency evacuation plan is also important.

Water should not be used to attempt to extinguish an electrical fire. Water is an excellent conductor of electricity and could make the fire worse, or cause serious injury. In case of an electrical fire, the main breakers should be shut off to stop the electricity from fueling the fire.  

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http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev

http://esfi.org/index.cfm/pid/10252