Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous, putting both your family and your residence in jeopardy. By educating yourself on the most common causes of electrical fires, you can reduce the risk of a fire happening in your home. Learn more.
Common Causes of an Electrical Fire
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an electric malfunction was the fourth leading cause of residential fires in 2018. There are five leading causes of electrical fires:
- Faulty appliances and outlets: The most common cause of electrical fires is faulty outlets or old appliances. Faults in appliance cords, switches, or receptacles can also cause fires. Lastly, when people remove the grounding plug from a cord (so they can fit it into a two-prong outlet), they’re increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Never use appliances that have worn or frayed cords. Under no circumstances should cords run underneath a carpet.
- Light fixtures: Often, people mistakenly install a bulb with a wattage that is too high for their lamp or light fixture, which can cause an electrical fire. Always check the maximum recommended bulb wattage on your lamps and lighting fixtures. Additionally, avoid putting cloths or paper over lampshades.
- Extension cords: People frequently use extension cords as a permanent fixture in their home. However, extension cords are supposed to be used only temporarily. If you don’t have enough outlets for your appliance, hire an electrician to install new ones.
- Space heaters: As space heaters are portable, people often put them in potentially dangerous locations. Avoid putting a space heater close to curtains, clothing, rugs, couches, or chairs.
- Wiring: Outdated wiring may be a danger homeowners are completely unaware of. If your home is over 20 years old, it most likely can’t handle the electrical needs of new appliances. With the increase of people owning computers, gaming systems, microwaves, air conditioners, and wide-screen televisions, your home is under a lot of electrical demands. Hire an electrician to inspect your wiring to ensure it doesn’t need updating.
Electrician in Frederick County MD for All Your Needs
Contact Tim Kyle Electric for a professional overview of your home’s electrical systems. You can sleep better knowing your home and family are safe and protected. Signing up for a Tim Kyle Electrical Home Safety Service Plan avails you of priority service, an annual safety check and extended warranties on any new equipment we install. Maybe we should call it a Wallet Protection Plan!