Preventing Electrical Fires – Easy to Follow Tips 

In the US, more than 25,000 electrical fires or shock accidents are reported every year. And in most of them, the reason was poor or careless handling of electrical devices and circuits. 

Ensuring safety at all times is important because even a minor careless act can result in the loss of life and property. So, here are a few tips to help you minimize the risk of electrical accidents or fires: 

1. Inspect old wiring

Wirings do not last forever. So, it’s necessary to inspect wiring every 5 to 10 years to see if they’re old and need to be replaced. If the wiring is worn out or frayed, talk to an electrician and get their opinion on whether it should be repaired or completely replaced.  

2. Make sure the electrical outlet is not overburdened 

Make it a point to not overburden any strips, extensions or power outlets by plugging in too many appliances at the same time since it can cause a fire. You can also get a power strip that prevents overload and fires. The strip tends to shut off right away if it gets overloaded. 

3. Check your light bulbs

Light bulbs shouldn’t have higher wattage than what is recommended since they can overburden the socket and cause a fire. So, make sure they match the fixture requirements. Replace them from time to time and screw them in securely to keep them from overheating. 

4. Don’t place heaters near the material that could catch fire

If the coil of the heater gets extremely hot, the risk of fire increases. So, make sure that clothes or rugs are kept at a distance from the heater. You can also consider using radiation heaters. They are a great option since they do not cause a fire when in contact with combustible material. 

5. Keep heat-producing appliances unplugged when you’re not using them

If appliances such as curling irons, heaters, hairdryers, etc. are kept plugged in when unattended, they may cause a fire. So, make sure they are unplugged when not in use. 

6. Don’t ignore the signs of trouble

Does a bulb in your home flicker or does the washing machine trip a breaker every time it is plugged in? Replace such appliances right away. These signs may not bother you initially, but when ignored for a long time, they can cause a fire.  

7. Equip your home with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI)

Ensure GFCI protection in the garage, kitchen utility room, and other areas of your home. It is designed to shut the power off immediately – within approximately 1/40 of a second – in case of a ground fault. 

8. Consider using IoT sensors

IoT heat-proof sensors can detect fire even before the smoke is released. Moreover, they can also detect the location of the potential hazard, hence allowing you to prevent a fire.

9. Use a circuit breaker box

A circuit breaker panel is used as the distribution source for all the electrical circuits in your home. It consists of a metal strip that flips or bends the switch when too much current flows through a circuit breaker to prevent a fire or short circuit. 

10. Use an Out of Voltage Parameter Circuit Interrupter (OPCI-V)

An electronic circuit, an OPCI-V measures the voltage of the line to compare it with the safe limits. If any abnormal voltage or condition is detected, it disconnects the load, hence, reducing the risk of power faults and potential fires. 

I have come across many people who reported fire accidents that could have been easily avoided. So, learn from the mistakes of others and act before a devastating accident takes place in your home. Talk to an expert and ensure that your home is not prone to fire accidents.