by Erika Mehlhaff
Electrical fires are a dangerous and potentially deadly threat. Unlike many other types of fires, electrical fires are particularly hazardous. It is important to know how to avoid and prevent them.
Why Are Electrical Fires Especially Hazardous?
Electrical fires are very common and present a particular danger to homeowners for a wide range of reasons. One of the most alarming aspects of electrical fires is how quickly they can spread. Electrical fires can rapidly engulf an entire room or building once they start because they tend to ignite flammable materials nearby (e.g. insulation, paper, furniture, etc.).
Electrical fires also can smolder unnoticed for some time due to things like faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or damaged electrical appliances generating heat and leading insulation or wiring to catch fire after a while. By the time the fire can be detected, it may already be too late to contain it without professional help.
Electrical fires can be challenging to extinguish. Using water to put out an electrical fire can worsen the situation, as it may cause electrical shock or spread the fire further. Specialized fire extinguishers are required to safely extinguish electrical fires. So, again, it could be catastrophic without calling in professional firefighters who have these extinguishers on hand. (Note that even after an electrical fire has been extinguished, there is a risk of re-ignition due to smoldering embers that have not cooled completely. It is crucial that the affected area is thoroughly inspected by the fire marshal or chief for this reason.)
Another electrical fire concern is the chemical hazard of highly toxic smoke. The smoke produced from burning wiring, insulation, plastics, etc. can be lethal if inhaled. In addition to the immediate threat of smoke inhalation, exposure to the toxins can have long-term health consequences.
https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Top-fire-causes/Electrical/Electrical-social-media-posts
How to Prevent Electrical Fires
Preventing electrical fires is vital for protecting property and people. Here are some essential tips to help you reduce the risk of electrical fires at home:
- Conduct regular inspections of electrical systems and appliances, looking for signs of damage or loose connections, and repair or replace them immediately.
- Avoid overloading circuits by using power strips with surge protectors where appropriate.
- Upgrade old wiring in the home or workplace so it meets modern safety standards.
- Use appliances safely, according to manufacturer guidelines, unplugging them when not in use.
- Never run cords under carpets or rugs, and avoid overusing extension cords.
- Install smoke detectors and alarms in every room and regularly test them to make sure they are functioning correctly.
FIRE CONTROL NEAR ME. Electrical fires pose a significant risk to homes due to their tendency to begin out of sight, rapid spread, difficulty in extinguishing, and production of toxic smoke. However, the risk of electrical fires can be mitigated and prevented by following safety measures and taking preventive steps. When it comes to electrical fires, prevention is the best protection. If you are in Texas and have questions about fire control methods and equipment and what would be most appropriate for use in your home, reach out the the safety professionals at Dyezz Surveillance and Security. Dyezz offers top-notch fire control products and services, tailored to each client’s needs. Whether you are looking for basic fire control systems for your home or more elaborate systems for your office or place of business, the Dyezz Fire Controls arm of this professional security service provider can help. Contact Dyezz today.