Molly Ayala
Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous and, according to statistics, electricity is the cause of around 7% of all residential fires each year. Therefore, it is important to know how to prevent and respond to electrical fires. This includes knowing how to identify signs of loose wiring or other electrical problems, such as hot plugs or sockets, scorch marks, fuses that often blow, or flickering lights. In the event of an electrical fire, one should first assess whether it is safe to extinguish the fire. If it is, the next step is to cut off the electricity supply to the object on fire and remove the oxygen source. One should never use water to put out an electrical fire, as water is a natural conductor of electricity and can result in a shock or electrocution. Instead, one should use a fire extinguisher that is non-conductive, such as a powder or CO2 extinguisher.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First step | Turn off the electrical supply to the object on fire |
| Second step | Remove the oxygen source |
| Fire extinguisher to use | Powder or CO2 (carbon dioxide) |
| Fire extinguisher to avoid | Water, foam, wet chemical |
| If unable to extinguish the fire | Leave the building, call 911 |
| Preventative measures | Invite an electrician to inspect the home, install smoke detectors in every room, develop an evacuation plan |
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What You'll Learn
Don't use water to extinguish electrical fires
It is important to remember that water should never be used to extinguish an electrical fire. Water is a natural conductor of electricity, and using it to put out an electrical fire can result in a shock or even electrocution. Furthermore, water can cause the fire to spread further.
Water fuels an electrical fire, and if you have water on your body when attempting to extinguish such a fire, for example, if you have wet hands, you could be putting yourself at risk of electric shock or electrocution.
In the case of an electrical fire, it is important to act quickly to prevent the fire from spreading. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electrical supply to the object that is on fire. If the fire is small, a fire blanket can be used to tackle the flames effectively and safely.
There are only two types of fire extinguishers that can safely extinguish electrical fires: powder or CO2 (carbon dioxide). These extinguishers are non-conductive and will not cause electric shocks or electrocution. It is a good idea to keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher in your kitchen and around your home so that you are prepared in case of an electrical fire.
While water should never be used to extinguish an electrical fire, it is important to note that the latest generation of fire extinguishers may employ a mist of distilled water, which is said to be non-conductive and safe for electrical fires. However, this method may not be suitable for control rooms with sensitive electronics, as the water mist could condense and drip onto the equipment.
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Cut off the electricity supply
If you discover an electrical fire, your first priority should be ensuring that you don't put yourself or anyone else at risk. If it is safe to do so, you can attempt to extinguish the fire. The first step is to cut off the electricity supply to the object that is on fire. If you can safely reach the cord and outlet, unplug the device. If you are unable to cut off the electricity supply or extinguish the fire, you should get out of the building and call the emergency services.
If you are able to cut off the electricity supply, you can move on to the next step of removing the oxygen source. If the fire is small, you may be able to put it out by smothering it with a fire blanket, clothing, or a heavy blanket. It is important to never use water to put out an electrical fire, as water is a natural conductor of electricity and can result in a shock or electrocution.
If you are going to use a fire extinguisher, you must use a non-conductive one. For electrical fires, you should only use extinguishants such as dry powder or carbon dioxide (CO2). Foam, water, and wet chemical fire extinguishers can conduct live currents and put you at significant risk.
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Use a fire blanket to smother the fire
Fire blankets are flexible sheets of woven fibreglass used to smother a fire. They are a useful firefighting tool in any home or business. Fire blankets are lightweight and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are usually stored in a quick-release container or pouch, making them easy to access in an emergency.
Fire blankets are a simple and effective tool for dealing with small fires. They work by smothering a fire and cutting off its oxygen supply, which is necessary for a fire to keep burning. Fire blankets are made of fire-resistant materials that can withstand high temperatures without catching fire themselves.
When using a fire blanket to put out an electrical fire, it is important to first turn off the power source to the object that is on fire. This will allow you to safely use the fire blanket without the risk of electrocution. Ensure that your hands are dry, as wet hands can conduct electricity and lead to electric shocks or injuries.
It is important to note that fire blankets are not suitable for all types of fires. They should not be used on large or out-of-control fires, and in such cases, it is best to evacuate the area immediately and call the fire department. Fire blankets are most effective against Class A, B, C, and F fires. They are useful for electrical fires, as they do not conduct electricity, but it is still crucial to turn off the power source if possible.
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Remove the oxygen source
If it is safe to do so, the first step to putting out an electrical fire is to turn off the electrical supply to the object that is on fire. Once this is done, you can move on to removing the oxygen source.
Removing the oxygen source is a way to stifle the fire and prevent it from spreading. This can be done by limiting the air supply. For example, if a fire breaks out inside an oven or a microwave, keep the door to these appliances closed to cut off the oxygen supply. Similarly, if a fire starts in a pan on your hob, you can cut off the oxygen supply by quickly placing a fire blanket over the flaming pan.
Fire blankets are an effective, clean, and safe way of tackling small electrical fires. Hold the fire blanket in front of you like a shield and safely drop it on top of the fire.
In the case of an electrical fire, smothering it to remove the oxygen is your best course of action. While certain fire extinguishers are ideal for smothering flames, fire blankets are the next best thing if an extinguisher is unavailable.
Another way to remove the supply of oxygen from a fire is to use bicarbonate of soda. This is mainly suitable for a kitchen fire, such as one caused by grease or cooking oil. Sprinkle a large amount of bicarbonate soda or salt over the fire and this should be enough to extinguish it, or at least give you time to get to your fire extinguisher.
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Call the emergency services if the fire can't be extinguished
If you are unable to extinguish an electrical fire, it is important to call the emergency services immediately. Electrical fires can spread quickly and pose a significant threat. The high temperatures generated can cause surrounding materials to catch fire, and the fire can transform into a full-blown inferno within moments.
When calling the emergency services, inform them that you are dealing with an electrical fire so that the firefighters are aware of the situation and can come prepared. Firefighters will be better equipped to fight a fire that has live electricity.
As you wait for the emergency services to arrive, ensure you prioritise your safety. Evacuate the premises and move to a safe distance away from the fire. If possible, shut off the electricity to the building to prevent the fire from spreading. Do not attempt to fight the fire if you feel unsafe or if your fire-fighting techniques are not working.
Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous and should not be underestimated. It is always better to be safe than sorry, so don't hesitate to call for help if you feel you need assistance in dealing with the fire.
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Frequently asked questions
If you discover smoke or fire, only attempt to extinguish it if it is safe to do so. Prioritise ensuring that you and others are not at risk. If it is safe to proceed, cut off the electricity supply to the object that is on fire.
If you can safely reach the cord and outlet, unplug the device.
If the fire is small, you can put it out by smothering it with a fire blanket or baking soda, or by removing the oxygen source with clothing or a heavy blanket.
Never use water to put out an electrical fire. Water is a natural conductor of electricity and can result in a shock or electrocution, and may cause the fire to spread.
Only use dry powder extinguishers or carbon dioxide extinguishers on electrical fires. Foam, water, and wet chemical fire extinguishers can conduct live currents and put you at risk.
