Outdated wiring and overloaded circuits are the most common causes of electrical fires. Check the following areas of your home to ensure your home’s electrical safety is up to par.
- Electrical outlets: Faulty outlets are a leading cause of home fires. As outlets age, so do the wires behind them that you can’t see. Any loose, damaged or warm-to-the-touch outlets should be repaired or replaced.
- Electrical wiring: Outdated wiring is another common cause of electrical fires. Frequently tripping breakers, flickering lights and burning smells are clear warning signs. If your home is more than 20 years old, it may not be able to handle today’s increased power load. If you suspect your home’s wiring is outdated, leave the fix to the pros and contact a qualified electrician.
- Overloaded cords and outlets: Extension cords aren’t a permanent solution. If your TV and other electronics are plugged into an extension cord, it’s time to call an electrician and install additional outlets.
- Old appliances: Older appliances are more likely to have loose or damaged wiring, which means they’re more likely to catch fire. Check older appliances for damage and determine if it’s time to upgrade or replace. Also check to ensure you’re using appliance-grade outlets. A qualified electrician can help with installation.
- Flammable material near electric heat sources: Placing cloth, like a curtain, or furniture near a heat-producing light or electric heaters can cause the material to heat up and ignite, causing a fire.
- Ungrounded plugs: Electronics often have a third prong—a grounding prong—on their plugs to serve as an emergency path in case of a short circuit or fault. Never remove a grounding prong.