Did you know that electrical fires are one of the leading causes of home fires in the United States? Every year, thousands of residential fires are started by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and other electrical problems. If you're a homeowner, it's important to be aware of these dangers and know how to prevent an electrical fire from happening in your home. In this blog post, Zar Electric will discuss the causes of electrical fires, how to spot potential danger signs, and what to do if a fire breaks out.
Common Causes of Electrical Fires
A common cause of electrical fires is poor wiring. Electrical wires that are too old, worn out, or simply not up to code can become overloaded and spark a fire. Other causes include faulty appliances, overloaded circuits, and using the wrong fuses for an appliance.
This holiday season, make sure you are lighting your Christmas tree carefully. According to the National Fire Research Laboratory, there are about 200 Christmas tree fires in the U.S. each year. If you are using an extension cord to light your tree, do not run it under the tree skirt and make sure you unplug the lights before you go to sleep.
Warning Signs of Electrical Fires
You should always look for potential danger signs in your home's wiring system. These include flickering lights, buzzing outlets, burning smells from outlets or appliances, or sparks when plugging in devices. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to call Zar Electric immediately to check it out.
What to Do in the Event of an Electrical Fire
Finally, if a fire breaks out due to electrical issues in your home, you should immediately evacuate the premises and call 911. You should never attempt to put out an electrical fire as it could cause serious harm or even death. It's essential to be prepared for an emergency situation like this by having a fire extinguisher on hand and making sure that all family members know how to evacuate the house safely in case of a fire.
Overall, homeowners need to be aware of the risks associated with electrical fires and take steps to prevent them from occurring in their home. Doing regular checks on wiring systems, keeping your electrical system up-to-date, being alert for danger signs, and knowing what to do in case of a fire can help protect you and your family from potential danger.
If you’re having issues with your home’s wiring or would like to schedule an electrical safety inspection, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (919) 200-6551. We prioritize safety for all of our customers, and we’re here to help keep your home’s electrical system running smoothly.