This is a very important and relevant topic, as electrical fires can cause serious damage and injuries to people and properties. In this blog, we will provide you with some useful information and tips on how to prevent electrical fires at home.
Electrical Fire Safety Tips – How To Prevent Electrical Fires At Home
Electrical fires are one of the most common causes of home fires in Canada.
According to the National Fire Information Database (NFID), fire departments among seven reporting jurisdictions in Canada attended just over 39,000 fires in 2021, marking the second consecutive year of increases. Of these fires, 42% were structural fires, of which 7 in 10 were residential2. Electrical distribution and lighting equipment, such as wiring, lighting, cords, and plugs, were involved in an estimated average of roughly 32,620 reported home structure fires per year in 2015–20193. These fires caused an estimated average of 430 civilian deaths and 1,070 civilian injuries each year in 2015-2019, as well as an estimated $1.3 billion in direct property damage a year.
Electrical fires can be prevented by following some simple but effective safety tips. In this blog, we will share with you some of the best practices and recommendations from experts and professionals on how to prevent electrical fires at home.
Tip #1: Inspect and maintain your electrical system
One of the main causes of electrical fires is faulty or outdated wiring. Over time, wires can become worn, frayed, loose, or damaged by rodents, water, or heat. This can create sparks or overheating that can ignite nearby combustible materials. To prevent this, you should inspect and maintain your electrical system regularly. You should also hire a licensed electrician to do any electrical work or repairs in your home. Some signs that indicate you need to upgrade or repair your wiring include:
Frequently blown fuses or tripped breakers
Flickering or dimming lights
Buzzing or sizzling sounds from outlets or switches
Burning smells or scorch marks around outlets or switches
Loose or warm outlets or switches
Cracked or broken insulation on wires
Tip #2: Use electrical appliances and equipment safely
Another common cause of electrical fires is malfunctioning or misusing electrical appliances and equipment. These include kitchen appliances, heating and cooling units, power tools, extension cords, and power strips. To prevent electrical fires caused by these devices, you should follow these safety tips:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings when using any electrical appliance or equipment.
Unplug appliances and equipment when not in use or when leaving the house.
Avoid overloading outlets or circuits by plugging too many devices into one receptacle.
Use extension cords and power strips only temporarily and sparingly
Replace any appliance or equipment that has a damaged cord, plug, switch, or casing.
Keep appliances and equipment away from water sources or wet areas
Keep appliances and equipment away from flammable materials such as curtains, bedding, paper, or furniture.
Tip #3: Install and test smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are essential devices that can help you detect and control electrical fires before they spread and cause more damage. Smoke alarms can alert you to the presence of smoke or fire in your home, while fire extinguishers can help you put out small fires before they get out of control. To prevent electrical fires with these devices, you should:
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area.
Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Install fire extinguishers on every level of your home, near exits, and in areas where fires are more likely to occur, such as the kitchen, garage, or workshop.
Choose fire extinguishers that are suitable for electrical fires (Class C) or for multiple types of fires (ABC).
Learn how to use fire extinguishers properly by following the PASS method: Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep from side to side.
Check your fire extinguishers monthly and recharge or replace them as needed.
Tip #4: Educate yourself and your family about electrical fire safety
The last but not least tip to prevent electrical fires at home is to educate yourself and your family about electrical fire safety. You should learn about the common causes and signs of electrical fires, as well as how to prevent them. You should also teach your children about the dangers of electricity and how to use it safely. Some of the things you can do to educate yourself and your family include:
Reading and following the safety tips and information provided by reputable sources, such as the NFID1, the NFPA, or the Coquitlam Fire/Rescue Department4
Watching and sharing educational videos and materials.
Taking online courses or quizzes, such as the ones offered by Premium Electric or Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI)
Practicing and reviewing your home fire escape plan with your family at least twice a year
Contacting your local fire department or electrical contractor for more advice or assistance
Watch out for these Electrical Fire Warning Signs
Flickering/dimming lights and light bulbs
Breakers that always trip
Fuses that always blow
Faulty extension cords
Old space heaters
Appliances that have a burning smell when they’re on, including the lights in a room
Discoloured wall outlets
Electrical outlets that spark
Faulty electrical appliances
Outlets and light switches that are hot when you touch them
A wall is abnormally hot
Outdated wiring
Loose plug retention in outlets – Do your cords stay plugged in?
By following these tips, you can prevent electrical fires at home and protect yourself, your family, and your property from harm. Remember, electrical fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Stay safe and stress-free with Stress Free Electrical Ltd. 😊