Did you know that electrical fires are the primary reason for residential fires and can leave severe damage to your home?
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) research, there is an average of 35,000 residential fires every year, which give rise to over 1,100 injuries, 500 deaths, and an annual cost of damage reaching up to $1.5 billion.
The primary step to safeguard your family from a potential electrical fire is to understand the causes.
Here are 9 tips that you can grip when it comes to preventing electrical fires at home.
Tip #1 – Pull out old appliances
As humans, we tend to hold on to that nostalgic kettle we used back in the 90s. Bringing new appliances to the home might break the bank. But it’s nothing compared to when an old device that often spits spark when turned on.
You must pay attention to your old appliances, especially when excessive heat comes in from them or trips the circuit breaker. These are a couple of reminders to tell you that old appliances need a replacement.
Tip #2 – Don’t overuse extension cords.
Keep in mind that your extension cord is only a temporary solution. Some of us treat an extension cord as permanent electrical wiring for our home or at the office. Your expensive appliances should be plugged directly into an outlet.
If you feel like you need more outlets in your home, hire an electrician to install new ones. Our expert electricians at Artizan electric can help If you live near Pullman or Whitman County.
Tip #3 – Keep an eye on portable heaters
There are chances for these heaters to be moved within the vicinity of a flammable object. It could be a curtain, clothing, couch, or even bed.
If you take portable heaters as a whole, coil space heaters are the most hazardous. Their coil becomes so hot that a nearby object can quickly get on flames.
If you want to use space heaters, then try the ones that use radiator-type that spread heat over the whole exterior of the appliance.
Tip #4 – Inspect your wirings at home
Who doesn’t like to live in a vintage home? Everyone loves it. But vintage homes come with vintage wirings. If you’re living in a home that’s more than 20 years old, then the wiring may not have the capacity to handle the modern-day appliances. The wires may break due to the overload of current flow, which may pose an electrical fire.
If you suspect that your wires are old enough, then don’t wait for them to catch on fire, contact a professional electrician and replace them right away.
Tip #5 – Never slash off the third prong on a power cord
Is there scarcity in your home for 3 prong power outlets, and you really want to plug in those appliances? If that’s the case, cutting off the ground plug isn’t a good idea.
That ground prong is there to protect you and your expensive appliance when there is an electrical malfunction.
It’s better to hire a professional electrician to install 3 prong outlets around the house.
Tip #6 – Modernize your home’s electrical system
As I told you earlier, most of us live in vintage homes. There are chances that our homes may be fitted out with Knob-and-tube wiring, aluminum wiring, 60-amp electrical system, and they have the tendency to overheat.
Suppose you’re living in an old home. In that case, it’s crucial to do an inspection of the entire electrical system and upgrade the whole circuit.
Tip #7 – Always unplug unused devices
This might sound simplistic, but it’s crucial for your protection from electrical fires. Getting into the routine of unplugging smaller appliances when they’re not operating is a good step towards preventing electrical fires.
Speaking of appliances, it’s imperative to unplug ovens, space heaters, electric irons, etc.
Not only that, the electricity costs of plugged-in devices can add up. Keeping this habit will also help you save a few dollars every month.
Tip #8 – Install a GFCI
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is necessary for your household if you’re looking for safety. It can help prevent electrical fires by automatically shutting down the circuit if it’s overloaded or at risk.
If you have a GFCI at home, it’s crucial to test it monthly to make sure it’s working correctly.
Schedule an electrical safety inspection today
You could always keep the 8 tips in your pocket, but an electrical safety inspection imperative. Better late than never. This could be the perfect time for you to do an electrical safety inspection on your home.
Our expert electricians at Artizan Electric can help you with an overall inspection of your home. We make sure everything is up and running so that you can have that peace of mind even when you’re not at home.
If you live near Spokane or Eastern Washington, contact us (509) 339-9991. We’re also available 24 hours for emergency services.
