Fires are always a looming risk at home and can be caused in various ways, from malfunctioning heating equipment and barbecues to candles and even smoking. That being said, one of the most common causes of residential fires is a faulty electrical system.
In many cases, electricity causes fire when it arcs between two conductors. This arc of power can easily reach tens of thousands of degrees Fahrenheit and quickly ignite a fire. To ensure that your home does not fall victim to electrical fires, here is what you can do to keep your electrical systems in check.
1) Avoid Using Damaged Cords
If you have any damaged cords lying around, such as frayed or cracked cords, do not use them. They are at high risk of producing arcs of electricity, which can lead to a fire. Also, make sure the plugs at the end do not show signs of damage and are clean. Using dirty plugs means that the outlet or even the plug itself will block the free flow of electricity, which can cause the current to arc and start a fire.
2) Unplug Unused Appliances
Not all your appliances need to be plugged in all the time. For instance, appliances such as kettles, microwaves, and toasters need to be unplugged when they are not in use. This is because when they are left plugged in, power will still run through them, allowing them to heat up.
Also, try to avoid plugging your appliances into extension cords. That is because many appliances, such as a fridge, need a lot of power to run. Using an extension cord can easily cause it to overload and result in a fire.
3) Make Sure Outlets and Switches Are Tight
Anywhere in your home where electricity goes through can be a potential fire risk. For that reason, make sure all the outlets and switches in your home fit snugly and are installed tightly into your walls. If they are loose, it can be a potential area for arcs to occur.
Also, test the switches for overheating. You can leave them on for a few minutes and touch them. If they are hot, there is a high probability that they are not appropriately installed. To add to this, do not switch the switches on and off too often, and make sure children cannot poke objects into the outlet. This can lead to a severe accident, harming the fixture, the electrical system, and the individual responsible for it.
Conclusion
Electrical fires can happen at any time and anywhere, and the best solution to such a problem is prevention. Apply the tips above to minimize the risk of an electrical fire. Also, make sure that your electrical system is well-maintained to lower the chances of problems developing.
That being said, if you notice an issue with your electrical system, do not wait to contact an electrician. With their help, you can quickly identify the root cause of the problem and minimize the risk of an electrical fire.
24/7 Emergency Electricians is a team of professional electricians providing various services, such as backup generator installations to electrical outlet repairs, to satisfy any electrical emergency needs. If you are looking for an emergency electrician near you in Edmonton, contact us today!
