Avoid Electrical Fires

Fires are among the leading causes of accidental death in the United States today. Nationally, it is estimated that nearly one-third of residential fires are related to electrical distribution or appliances and equipment. These electrical fires cause hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries, and translate into more than a billion dollars in property damage each year.

Many avoidable fires can be traced to poor maintenance and misuse of electrical appliances and electric cords. Do not place cords underneath rugs and furniture, and do not run cords behind baseboards, curtains and in high-traffic areas. Damaged, abused or worn extension cords can pose a major fire hazard.

Some suggested home appliance safety checks and measures to prevent shocks, burns and fires include:

• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never remove the grounding pin or force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Replace any appliance or tool if it causes even small electrical shocks, overheats, shorts out or gives off smoke or sparks.
• Do not use light bulbs with wattage that is too high for the fixture.
• To prevent overheating, allow air space around heat-producing appliances such as TVs, plug-in radios, stereo sets, computers and powerful lamps.
• Be sure all electrical equipment bears the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label.

Additionally, to prevent electrical overloading, avoid using extension cords on a permanent basis and never plug more than two home appliances into an outlet at once. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs. Give special consideration to appliances that use 1,000 or more watts, such as refrigerators, hot plates, irons, microwave ovens, dishwashers, heaters, and air conditioners. Avoid plugging them into the same outlet or circuit. Do not exceed 1,500 watts for each outlet or circuit. If a circuit breaker trips or a fuse blows frequently, immediately cut down on the number of appliances on that line.

Electrical wiring defects are a major cause of residential blazes. Check periodically for loose wall receptacles, loose wires, or loose lighting fixtures. Listen for popping or sizzling sounds behind walls. Immediately shut off, then have a professional replace light switches that are hot to the touch, and lights that spark and flicker.

The majority of fires caused by electrical wiring flaws occur in the bedroom. Therefore, homeowners are encouraged to have Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (ACFIs) professionally installed in bedrooms. AFCI is a relatively new technology to address electrical fire hazards, and the National Electric Code now requires AFCIs for bedroom circuits in new residential construction.

In many older homes, the capacity of the wiring system has not kept pace with today’s increase in modern appliances and electrical usage.

Another important note: Replace the batteries twice a year, and remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.