With all of the computers, cell phones and other devices in your home, is your family constantly overloading extension cords? As the summer months start to heat up, are you plugging in fans on top of all of these tangled wires? Do you notice that the lights in your home or office are flickering and dimming, signaling the potential for an electrical fire?
According to the National Electrical Safety Month and the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), the incorrect use of extension cords and overloaded outlets are two of the central reasons that home fires occur. Every May, the ESFI raises awareness of electrical hazards, so we can take steps to avoid these dangers. The third edition of Electrical Safety Illustrated titled “At Home and at Work: Make Electrical Safety Everyone’s Responsibility” offers important information about common problems in homes and offices.
Electrical Fire Statistics
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates an average of nearly 48,000 home structure fires were reported to U.S. fire departments. Approximately half of these involved electrical distribution or lighting equipment such as cords, lighting, plugs or wiring.
These fires result in 455 civilian deaths, more than 1,500 civilian injuries and $1.5 billion in property damage. With some easy steps, we can decrease the risk of electrical hazards.
Simple Steps to Reduce Fire Risks
If you notice any issues with the wiring in your home or office, one easy step is to contact a qualified electrician promptly. Another precaution is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plugging appliances into wall outlets. Here are some additional tips:
- Plug only one heat-generating appliance (such as a coffee maker, toaster, space heater, etc.) into a wall outlet at a time. Pull out the plugs when you are not using a piece of equipment.
- To protect children, ask your electrician to install tamper-resistant electrical outlets. Another option is using protective outlet covers, so kids can’t push objects into wall outlets.
- Don’t place cords under rugs and carpets or across doorways, where crimping can occur.
- Follow wattage guidelines for light bulbs in lamps or other fixtures. Do not exceed the maximum recommendation.
- Ask a qualified electrician to install arc fault circuit interrupters, which are circuit breakers that will turn off electricity if a dangerous situation arises.
- Replace any cracked, damaged or loose electrical cords regularly. Check that they are not tangled.
Contact Us for Fire Damage Restoration Centerton AR
If a fire still occurs in your home or office despite these precautions, the team of technicians at NWA Restore It, Inc. will respond quickly. We’ll contain the damage to secure your property and can restore many of your possessions to pre-loss condition. For 24/7 emergency service and fire damage restoration Centerton AR, contact NWA Restore It, Inc..
