According to the U.S. Fire Administration, in 2014, electrical fires accounted for 6.3 percent, nearly 24,000 fires, of all residential fires, 11 percent of the fires where someone died and 7 percent of the fires where someone was injured.
Most electrical fires are caused by faulty electrical outlets and old, outdated appliances. Other fires are started by faults in appliance cords, receptacles and switches. Never use an appliance with a worn or frayed cord which can send heat onto combustible surfaces like floors, curtains, and rugs that can start a fire.
Running cords under rugs is another common cause of electrical fires. Removing the grounding plug from a cord so it can be used in a two-prong electrical outlet can also cause a fire. The reason appliances have the extra prong is so they can be only used in outlets that can handle the extra amount of electricity that these appliances draw.
Recently, the Southern Manatee Fire & Rescue District sent out some fire safety tips for electrical outlets in their newsletter, that we’ve included below:
- Worn-out, overloaded or faulty electrical outlets are some of the most common causes for electrical fires in the home. Inspect all electrical outlets regularly for damage or deterioration. Just by replacing damage electrical outlets and using the electrical outlet properly can help minimize your risk of a house fire.
- When inspecting each electrical outlet, make sure that the cover is intact and there are no exposed wires or gaps between the electrical outlet and the surrounding walls. Any discoloration or cracks found discontinue use and have the electrical outlet repaired or replaced.
- Feel if the electrical outlet is warm. If it is warm, it could mean an issue with the wiring, breaker panel or that the electrical outlet just needs to be replaced. Always replace any electrical outlet with loose plugs. Movement within the plug can pose a significant safety risk.
- When inserting or detaching the plug of an appliance, be sure hold the base of the plug securely. Pulling the cord from a distance or an angle can break wires and damage the electrical outlet.
Homeowners can reduce the likelihood of accidents and fires by periodically checking and fixing any defects in electrical outlets. Use a licensed professional service provider to complete any repairs.
Homeowners insurance typically helps cover your home and belongings. Most policies include coverages which may help pay to repair or replace your home and its contents if they are damaged by fire.
Your house is probably the most valuable asset you have, and you have homeowners insurance to help protect you and your house in case something unfortunate, such as a fire, should happen.
