According to the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), electrical fires kill 280 Americans every year. Don’t become part of these statistics. If you have further questions about electrical fires, call a professional electrician like Thomas Edison Electric Inc. Philadelphia or your electrical supplier.
Fire Prevention
There are many things you can do to prevent electrical fires. Never overload a single electrical outlet. Unplug appliances when you are not using them. Regularly check electrical wires and replace any that are frayed or split open. Never use bulbs with a higher wattage than recommended for your lamps. Keep curtains or drapes about three feet away from electrical appliances. Should the appliance catch fire, the fire will not spread as quickly when the drapes or curtains do not ignite.
Fire Extinguishers
It is highly important that you never put water on an electrical fire. Water will only make the fire worse. If you have home fire extinguishers, check to see that it does not contain water. In America, extinguishers that are specially formulated to put out electrical fires are Class C. If you have a combination class extinguisher, such as an ABC extinguisher, make sure that the flame retardant is based on dry chemicals and not water. Replace fire extinguishers every year. If you do not have a home fire extinguisher, use baking soda to put out an electrical fire.
Know How to Shut Off Your Electrical Power
It’s important for every home owner to know where the electrical circuit breaker is. If possible, turn off the electricity if a fire breaks out. You also need to turn off the electricity whenever anyone works on your electrical wiring. Make sure there is a clear path to the circuit breaker at all times. When it comes to fires, every second counts. Move all boxes or other clutter away from the circuit breaker.
After the Fire Is Out
After the fire is out, you still have a risk that it will restart. Never turn on the circuit breaker, even after the fire has been put out. Get your home wires inspected to be sure it is safe to turn the electricity back on.
There are many things you can do to prevent electrical fires. Never overload a single electrical outlet. Unplug appliances when you are not using them. To know more visit at Thomas Edison Electric Inc.
