How to Prevent Electric Fires

How to Prevent Electric Fires

January 11, 2023

Most households in the United States run on electricity, whether making breakfast, taking a shower, cleaning the house, or maintaining a conducive indoor atmosphere. With all the plugged-in appliances running throughout the day, an accident can cause injuries and monetary damage. The last thing any homeowner wants is an electrical fire emergency, risking the wellbeing of your loved ones. At Mr. Electric of Dallas, we believe electrical fires are highly preventable with simple safety tips. Let’s look at ways to prevent electrical fires.

Have an Electrical Inspection

Even if everything is running as expected, we recommend hiring an electrician for professional electrical inspection and maintenance services. Since most appliances are used regularly, your electrical system can experience a minor deterioration in components like wiring. A professional assessment aims to pinpoint these issues before the damage becomes more pronounced. We leverage extensive industry knowledge to guarantee long-term solutions and the safety of your household.

Don’t Overload Outlets

Every circuit in your home sends power to various outlets, but there’s a limit to how much each can handle. While it is easy to plug in an extension cord, ensure you are not overloading the outlet with multiple appliances. If there are limited outlets in your home, use a surge protector before plugging in many items. A durable and safer solution is to hire an electrician to remove the electrical burden by installing additional sockets.

Keep Flammable Materials Away

Many flammable items in a residential building include fabric items like towels, bedding, and rugs. If these items are stored near electrical outlets when hot devices are plugged in, they can easily catch fire. The garage is also full of flammable liquids like gasoline and lighter fluid which should be kept at a safe distance from outlets. A single spark from an outlet in the garage can lead to devastating damages, and we recommend personal and professional electrical inspections.

Check for Plug or Cord Damage

Damaged plugs or cords with exposed wiring overheat quickly and should be addressed as soon as possible. If sparks or a burning smell emanates from your outlet after plugging in a device, you need to check for signs of wear and replace the cord. An electrician can assess the damage and recommend the safest option, whether replacing the entire unit or a damaged component. When you schedule an electrical inspection, we ensure all the appliances and your home system are in optimal condition.

Be Aware of Appliances

Technological advancements have led to additional kitchen appliances like air fryers and instant pots. However, knowing where and when you are plugging in such devices is vital. If you are not careful, the kitchen outlet can become overloaded, risking a fire hazard. If you see smoke or sparks when using an appliance, unplug it immediately and call an electrician in Farmers Branch.

Contact us at Mr. Electric of Dallas and schedule a consultation with our team of experts. We guarantee top-quality electrical inspection and maintenance services without breaking the bank.