Electrical Fires:

Do you know how to react?

Electrical fires can start for a number of reasons. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and defective products can all contribute to the causes of electrical fires.

Causes of Electrical Fires

Defective Products - Counterfeit products can be found in many legitimate stores. These knock-off brand-name products are illegal but often the stores aren’t even aware they are fakes. Unfortunately, these products often don’t comply with even the most basic safety standards and they can easily cause an electrical fire.

Overloaded Outlets - Another common cause of fires is overloaded electrical outlets. Hair dryers, curling irons and space heaters, can easily overload a circuit. If the circuit breaker is faulty, these hot appliances can easily catch fire.

Faulty Wiring - Electrical fires are also caused by faulty wiring in the walls. When electrical currents pass through wiring, they generate heat. The heat can cause the wiring to contract and expand, which will eventually loosen the wires. When this happens, the electricity can produce heat in excess of 900 degrees Celsius which can quickly ignite wood beams and supports.

Extension Cords - Extension cords that are frayed can also start fires. To prevent this, don’t overuse extension cords. Also, be certain not to run them behind your furniture or under rugs.

What to Do if a Fire Starts

If you see smoke coming out of a wall socket, a fire has probably already started behind the walls. Turning off the power will cut off the source of the fire but don’t assume it will stop it. Odds are the fire will still be burning in the walls so it is important to leave the house and call the fire brigade.

It is also important to know that waterwill NOT put out an electrical fire. It will, however, CAUSE ELECTROCUTION.

Chemical powders used to extinguish other types of fires will also not be effective. They can permit the fire to smolder and flare up again.

This is why it is so important to have a Class ABC fire extinguisher available and easily accessible. Class C fire extinguishers will put out an electrical fire. If you can’t get to one during a fire, shut off your electric and get out of the house immediately, then call the fire brigade.

Electrical fires are very common and they are extremely dangerous. Most electrical fires can be prevented by taking care not to overload sockets and following the advice given above on the use of extension cords. It is also important to have electrical systems inspected periodically, especially if you notice anything unusual.

The most important thing to remember when faced with an electrical fire is that it is very different from any other fire. Shut off the power and if you don’t feel you can extinguish it safely – help everyone leave the premises and then call the fire brigade for help.

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