Where there is electricity, there is always that risk of an electrical fire.
Where there is electricity, there is always that risk of an electrical fire. They’re notorious for spreading with lightning speed through your wiring, even behind walls, out of everyone’s sight. In fact, an average of about 400 deaths, 1,500 injuries, and billions of property damage occurs every year because of an electrical fire, all according to the National Fire Protection Association. By the time you notice or smell the smoke, the fire might already be out of control. It is essential to know the signs of increased electrical fire risk to make the right repairs to mitigate the situation as quickly as possible, and what you have to do if the fire has already started. Read on to learn more!
Possible Causes of an Electrical Fire Risk
An electrical fire can start and then spread due to problems like overloaded circuits, aging, weathering, faulty outlets, and many more. Because there’s so many potential causes of a fire, it makes a lot more sense to have a consistent electrical fire safety inspection in your building to check for potential hazards. Some possible causes of an electrical fire are:
- Discoloration or smoke marks around outlets, switches, and outlets
- Flickering lights
- Fuses and breakers always turning off or overloaded
- Cables and lead worn or frayed
A qualified electrician has to regularly inspect these and other electrical safety aspects throughout buildings and homes to reduce the risk of a potential electrical fire and protect property and lives.
What to Do When an Electrical Fire Begins
Make sure never to put any water on an electrical fire. Mixing water with electricity can shock you to death. Also, try to shut down the electricity in your building if you can. This will slow down the fire’s progression and could save other areas that might not have been affected. Once the electricity is off, use a Class C Fire extinguisher to put out all local flames. Make sure that everybody in your building knows where these fire extinguishers are and have them inspected, so they’re ready when needed.
A certified electrician or fire safety expert can give you all of the help you need in the event of an electric fire.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
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