In case of an electrical emergency, being a fast thinker and making informed decisions are vital. Knowing the intricacies around electrical fires is essential to ensure your safety and that of your property.
Likewise, recognising the distinct electrical fire smell can be a lifesaver. This awareness can give you a heads-up, allowing you time to call a 24/7 electrician for help.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the three ways to handle electrical fires and how to stop them, as well as talk about the critical timeframe in which these fires ignite.
3 Ways to Deal With an Electrical Fire
The 3 ways to deal with an electrical wire are to turn off the power, use the proper fire extinguisher, and call emergency services. Let’s look into each one below:
Turn Off the Power Source
The first important in handling an electrical fire is to turn off the power source. Quickly switch off the main power at your home’s fuse box or circuit breaker.
Doing so minimises the chances of a fire from spreading or reigniting, making the place safer.
Use the Proper Fire Extinguisher
Be sure to use the proper fire extinguisher when managing an electrical fire. The Class E type is effective in extinguishing flames caused by electrical issues.
A Class E fire extinguisher has non-conductive chemicals that make it the right choice without risking further damage or electrical shock to the operator.
Call Emergency Services
Don’t hesitate to evacuate the area immediately if you feel uncertain of your safety. Once you’re at a safe distance, call emergency services to get help.
Keep in mind that no property is worth more than your own well-being. All professional firefighters have the proper equipment and training to handle electrical fires effectively.
How Do You Stop an Electrical Fire?
You stop an electrical fire by first making sure the electrical supply, especially when dealing with a wet electrical outlet, is shut down at the mains. This important step helps in preventing the fire from becoming worse.
Using a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher is also critical, as these units are suitable for dealing with electrical fires. You can also use a fire blanket to smother the flames, but only when they are small and contained.
How Long Does It Take for an Electrical Fire to Start?
It takes around 3 minutes to 1 hour for an electrical fire to start. This time period is influenced by factors such as the wiring’s condition, the presence of flammable materials nearby, and the intensity of the electrical fault.
The significant gap in time is caused by the diverse nature of electrical systems along with the different rates with which they can overheat and cause ignition.
Can You Smell an Electrical Fire Before It Starts?
Yes, you can smell an electrical fire before it starts since it’s characterised by a distinct acrid odour. The smell is usually caused by overheating insulation or electrical components.
Knowing how to identify these unusual odours in your property can be a vital early warning sign for potential electrical hazards.
