What to do if you experience electrical fires in your home

12/11/2024 (Permalink)

Protect your home from future electrical fires by staying informed, acting fast, and calling in the experts when needed.

Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous and cause significant damage to homes. In fact, electrical failures or malfunctions are the second leading cause of home fires in the United States, accounting for 13% of all home structure fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Knowing what to do in the event of an electrical fire can make all the difference in protecting your property and loved ones. Here’s what you need to know if you experience an electrical fire in your home.

Recognize the Signs of an Electrical Fire

Electrical fires often begin subtly, with warning signs that might go unnoticed. Watch for these common indicators of electrical issues:

Frequent circuit breaker trips
Burning smell without a clear source
Discolored or charred outlets
Sparking from outlets or appliances

Recognizing these signs early can help prevent a minor issue from turning into a full-blown electrical fire.

What to Do When an Electrical Fire Starts

If an electrical fire occurs in your home, it’s critical to act fast but safely. Here’s what to do:

Cut off the Power: If it's safe to do so, immediately turn off the power at the circuit breaker. This cuts off the electrical current feeding the fire, reducing the risk of it spreading.
Use a Fire Extinguisher: Use a Class C fire extinguisher designed for electrical fires. Never use water to put out an electrical fire, as water conducts electricity and can make the situation more dangerous.
Evacuate and Call 911: If the fire is spreading quickly or you're unable to extinguish it, evacuate immediately. Call 911 and let the professionals handle the fire.
Do Not Re-Enter: Once you’ve evacuated, don’t go back inside until emergency responders have confirmed it’s safe. Re-entering too soon can be dangerous due to lingering electrical hazards.

Preventing Future Electrical Fires

Prevention is key when it comes to electrical fires. Follow these tips to reduce the risk:

Regularly inspect your electrical system with the help of a licensed electrician.
Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords.
Replace outdated wiring and faulty appliances.
Use surge protectors to safeguard devices during electrical surges.

By staying proactive and aware, you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing an electrical fire.

Trust SERVPRO® of St. George for Fire Damage Restoration

In the unfortunate event that your home experiences fire damage, SERVPRO of St. George is here to help. Our team of fire restoration experts has the experience and tools necessary to restore your home to pre-fire conditions. We’re available 24/7 to assist with any fire-related emergency.