An electrical fire is a kind of fire that results from an electrical issue. It’s vital to recognise an electrical fire to maintain the safety of one’s home.
When it happens, contacting an experienced electrical service provider is your best choice.
For this blog, we’ll talk about how electrical fires start, the common causes, and how you can prevent them.
How Do Electrical Fires Start?
Electrical fires start when an electrical fault occurs in appliances or systems, leading to hazardous situations. Knowing and resolving these problems immediately is vital to avoid dangerous situations.
Getting the help of qualified electricians through regular inspections can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires.
3 Most Common Causes of Electrical Fires
The 3 most common causes of electrical fires are improper wiring, overloaded circuits, and fault outlets.
Improper Wiring
One of the leading causes of electrical fires is improper or outdated wiring. Homes with wiring that doesn’t meet current safety standards are at a higher risk. Additionally, DIY wiring jobs can often lead to dangerous mistakes. Issues such as insufficient wire size, improper connections, or the use of non-compliant materials can create hazardous conditions. In particular, frayed wires in such setups can easily spark and ignite a fire.
Overloaded Circuits
Overloading electrical circuits is a common issue in many homes. This happens when too many appliances or devices are connected to a single circuit, exceeding its safe capacity. The excess load can cause overheating, leading to the deterioration of insulation and increasing the risk of fire. It’s crucial to understand the capacity of your home’s electrical system and use it accordingly.
Faulty Outlets
Faulty electrical outlets are a significant contributor to house fires. Over time, outlets can become loose, have poor connections, or sustain damage. Such defects can lead to arcing, where electrical current jumps over gaps in the connection, creating intense heat that can ignite surrounding materials. Regular inspection and prompt replacement of any damaged outlets are essential to prevent such hazards.
How Can I Prevent Electrical Fires?
You can prevent electrical fires by doing the following:
- Perform regular checks and maintenance on all appliances and cords, ensuring they all are in great condition.
- Avoid overloading your electrical outlets and circuits by distributing electrical loads wisely.
- Get help from a licenced electrician to conduct periodic inspections of your home’s electrical system.
How Do I Put Out an Electrical Fire?
You can put out an electrical fire by turning off the power, using the right fire extinguisher, and applying baking soda.
Turn Off Power
The first step to address an electrical fire is immediately turning off the power source. You can do this by unplugging the appliance involved or simply switching off the main power supply at your circuit breaker. Doing so stops the current flow and will help in preventing the fire from spreading.
Use the Right Fire Extinguisher
A Class C fire extinguisher is the best type to use for electrical fires. These fire extinguishers are ideal for handling such electrical equipment-related fires. Always aim them at the base of fires and then slowly sweep them side by side.
Apply Baking Soda
In dire situations, you can use baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to put out small and contained fires. This Class C fire extinguisher component can smother flames. Keep in mind that this method should only be used if you don’t have the appropriate fire extinguisher around.
