Top 5 Electrical Fire Causes & Safety

Home electrical fires are the most common types of fire accidents in the world. They account for roughly 51,000 fires every year, with more than 1,400 injuries, 500 fatalities, and $1+ billion of property damage.

If you’re taking any fire and safety courses, then it is important to know about the causes of electrical fires and ways to prevent them. Only then can you teach others how to avoid electrical fire accidents.

In this blog, we will learn about the top 5 causes of electrical fire along with some safety tips to avoid them.

5 Common Causes of Electrical Fire

Below are the five common situations that result in deadly fire accidents:

1. Faulty Appliances and Power Outlets

A large number of electrical fires are caused by outdated and faulty appliances and power outlets. Sometimes they are also caused by faults in switches, cords and receptacles. Therefore, one should never use electrical appliances with frayed or worn out cords that are capable of transferring heat to combustible objects like floors, rugs, and curtains that can ignite a fire.

Another major reason behind the electrical fire is the electrical cords running under carpets and rugs. The best way to prevent it is to remove any grounding plug that can cause a fire.

2. Inappropriate Light Fixtures

Light bulbs, lamps, and fixtures are another common reason behind home fires. Installing bulbs and fixtures with an inappropriate wattage can cause fire accidents. Therefore, always install bulbs and other things only after checking the recommended wattage.

Also, don’t place combustible materials like cloth, magazines or papers over a lampshade

This is another cause of electrical fire you should avoid.

3. Overuse of Extension Cords

Electrical fires are also caused by excessive use of extension cords. Note that the electrical appliances, especially the large ones, should always be plugged directly into the power outlets and not into the extension boards. Use them only for small appliances and that too temporarily.

4. Room Heaters

Because room and space heaters are portable, many people place them too close to combustible materials like beds, linen, curtains, chairs, clothing, rugs, and couches. Out of all kinds of heaters, coil heaters are dangerous because their coil gets heated very fast and allows it to ignite flammable objects quickly.

The best way to prevent this is using radiator-type space heaters that diffuse heat evenly on the surface of the machine. These are safer than coil heaters but should still be handled with care. Don’t place them near any flammable object.

5. Poor Wiring

Outdated and faulty wiring is another reason behind home fires. If your home was built several years ago, it may not have the appropriate wiring that can safely handle the increased amount of electricity flow between heavy appliances like refrigerators, computers, geysers, air conditioners, microwaves, etc.

To prevent fire accidents, always check the wiring and rework it according to your electricity usage.

So, these were the common causes behind electrical fires and the ways to prevent them. We hope it helps you in your fire and safety courses. Also, if you’re still looking for the best fire & safety institute in Kolhapur, then visit us today!