Follow These Tips to Avoid Electrical Fires at Home
Every year there are fires in homes caused by electrical problems. In many cases, these fires could have been prevented if the homeowner had taken a few simple precautions. How do I prevent electrical fires? There are several things you can do to prevent electrical fires. Below are some tips to help you avoid an electrical fire in your home.
Check Your Home’s Wiring Regularly
Ensure that your home’s wiring is up to date and in good condition. Look for any signs of wear or damage, and have a professional electrician check it out if you’re not sure. If you live in an older home, it is especially important to have an electrician check your wiring to make sure that it is up to code. Older homes often have wiring that is not adequate to handle today. Ensuring that your home is up to code is one of the best ways to prevent electrical fires.
Don’t Overload Outlets And Extension Cords
One of the most common causes of electrical fires is overloaded outlets and extension cords. Don’t plug too many appliances into one outlet, and don’t use extension cords for more than their intended purpose. This can cause an electrical fire. If an extension cord or appliance cord is damaged, don’t use it. Damaged cords can cause electrical fires. If you need to use a damaged cord, have it repaired by a professional first.
Use Surge Protectors
Surge protectors are devices that protect your electrical appliances from power surges. Power surges can happen for several reasons, and they can damage your appliances or even cause an electrical fire. Surge protectors help to prevent this by absorbing the excess energy and dissipating it safely.
Keep Flammable Objects Away From Electronics
Another common cause of electrical fires is flammable objects being too close to heat-producing electronics. Make sure to keep any flammable objects, like paper, clothes and curtains, at least three feet away from heat-producing electronics, like space heaters and televisions.
Unplug Appliances When Not In Use
Appliances that are plugged in but not in use can still pose a fire risk. Unplug any appliances that you’re not using, and don’t leave them plugged in when you’re not home.
Don’t Run Cords Under Carpets
Running cords under carpets is a common way to hide them, but it’s also a fire hazard. The heat from the cords can cause the carpet to catch fire. If you must run cords under carpets, make sure to use cord covers to protect them.
Keep an Eye Out for Signs of Trouble
Even if you take all the precautions, it’s still important to be on the lookout for signs of trouble. You might be wondering, "What are the electrical fire warning signs in my home?" Here are a few electrical fire warning signs that you should look out for in your home:
- Flickering or dimming lights.
- Buzzing or sizzling sounds coming from outlets or light fixtures.
- Burning smells near outlets or electrical appliances.
- Discolored outlets or switches.
Make sure to call an electrician right away if you notice these signs.
How do I prevent electrical fires? Taking the precautions above can help prevent electrical fires in your home. In case of any questions, please consult with a professional electrician. If there is an electrical fire, make sure to get everyone out of the house and call 911. Never try to fight an electrical fire yourself.
Categorised in: Fire Prevention Plans
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