Beatrice Lang
Electrical fires are dangerous and can be deadly, causing the highest number of deaths and the most property damage compared to other types of fires. Water should never be used to put out an electrical fire as it conducts electricity and can cause further issues. The best way to put out an electrical fire is with a fire extinguisher, specifically a Class C fire extinguisher, which is designed for electrical fires. If a fire extinguisher is not available, small electrical fires can be put out with baking soda, which releases carbon dioxide and chokes the fire.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What to do first | If it is a large fire, evacuate the premises. If it is a small fire, cut the power at the source. |
| What to use to extinguish the fire | Baking soda, a fire extinguisher, dirt, salt, or a heavy blanket or clothing to smother the fire. |
| What not to use to extinguish the fire | Water, as it fuels the fire and can cause electric shock or electrocution. Flour can also make the fire grow. |
| How to prevent electrical fires | Keep heat-producing appliances unplugged when not in use. Be wary of burn marks around sockets, hot power cords, outdated appliances, and frayed or worn cords. |
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What You'll Learn
Don't use water
Water is a conductor of electricity, so it is unsafe to use it to put out an electrical fire. If you put water on an electrical fire, you risk electrocution and making the fire spread faster.
The first thing you should do in the event of an electrical fire is to disconnect the power source. If an appliance or cable has caught fire, unplug it from the power source. If the fire is in a room, go to your breaker box and turn off the power for that room. If it is safe to do so, you can then use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire. The best type of fire extinguisher to use on an electrical fire is a C-rated or ABC-rated extinguisher. These extinguishers contain CO2 or dry chemicals and are non-conductive. If you do not have a fire extinguisher, you can use baking soda to smother the fire.
If the fire is out of control, do not attempt to put it out. Prioritize evacuation and call the emergency services. It is also recommended that you call the fire department if the fire started on an appliance attached to a wall, ceiling, or floor, as the fire may be burning or smouldering inside the building where you can't see it.
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Unplug the appliance
Unplugging the appliance is a crucial first step in dealing with an electrical fire. This step is essential as it helps to cut off the power supply to the fire, preventing it from spreading further.
If you notice an appliance on fire, your first instinct may be to panic, but it is vital to stay calm and act quickly. If you can safely reach the cord, unplug the appliance from the power source immediately. This action will separate the fire from its fuel source, starving the flames and hindering their growth. It is important to note that you should not attempt to unplug the appliance if there is any water on your body, as water fuels electrical fires and increases the risk of electric shock or electrocution.
In the case of a small electrical fire, unplugging the appliance may not extinguish the flames entirely, but it is a critical first step before attempting other methods to put out the fire. It is also important to note that unplugging the appliance is only applicable if the fire is confined to the appliance itself and has not spread to other areas. If the fire has already spread or if unplugging the appliance is not possible, focus on evacuating yourself and others from the premises and calling the emergency services.
To prevent electrical fires, it is recommended to keep heat-producing appliances unplugged when not in use. Regularly inspect your appliances for any signs of wear or damage, such as frayed or worn cords, and avoid running cords under rugs. Additionally, be cautious of outdated or faulty appliances, as they can pose a fire hazard. If you suspect any issues with your electrical wiring or outlets, it is best to contact a professional electrician for an inspection.
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Use baking soda
It is important to remember that electrical fires are different from other fires. Water should never be used to extinguish electrical fires as it will only make the fire worse. If the fire is too big, evacuate the premises immediately and call emergency services.
If the electrical fire is small, unplug the appliance or turn off the power on your electrical panel to cut the power source. This will help to keep the flames from spreading.
Baking soda can be used to extinguish small electrical fires. Pouring or throwing baking soda on the source of the fire can help smother the flames. Baking soda contains sodium bicarbonate, which is also found in many fire extinguishers. If you do not have baking soda, other options include dirt or salt.
If you are unable to extinguish the fire, evacuate the premises and call 911 or your local fire department. It is important to stay calm and assess the situation before taking action.
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Smother with a blanket
If you discover an electrical fire, your first priority should be to evacuate the building and call 911. Do not attempt to fight the fire unless it is small and you feel comfortable and safe doing so.
If the fire is minor and you want to try to put it out, never use water. Water is a natural conductor of electricity, so throwing water on an electrical fire will likely result in electrocution and may cause the fire to spread.
One way to extinguish a small electrical fire is to smother it with a blanket. To do this, first cut off the electricity. If it is safe to do so, unplug the device causing the fire. If the plug is out of reach, go to your electrical panel and turn off the power at the main breaker. Once the power source has been disconnected, you can attempt to smother the fire with a heavy blanket. Be sure to use a non-flammable blanket or piece of fabric, as any combustible material will only worsen the situation.
If you have a fire blanket, this can be used to smother a small electrical fire. Fire blankets are thick and designed to remove the oxygen source, thereby starving the fire. If you do not have a fire blanket, a heavy blanket, or thick, dense clothing can be used as an alternative.
Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If you are unsure how to handle the situation or the fire is spreading, evacuate the building and wait for the firefighters to arrive.
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Call emergency services
If you discover an electrical fire, it is important to remain calm and follow these steps:
Firstly, call the emergency services. Depending on where you are, this could be 9-1-1, or you may have a specific number for the fire department. It is important to get help and directions from professionals. Provide them with as much information as possible about your location and the extent of the fire. If possible, evacuate the building and wait for the fire department to arrive.
If you cannot evacuate the building due to blocked exits, or if you are feeling unsafe, breathe in smoke, or if your fire-fighting techniques are not working, it is important to abandon your efforts and seek help. Do not attempt to fight the fire if you feel you are in danger. Your safety is the top priority.
Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous and can result in serious injuries or even death. They can also cause extensive property damage. It is important to take preventative measures to reduce the risk of electrical fires, such as regular electrical maintenance and inspections, and to have a fire safety plan in place.
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Frequently asked questions
Never throw water on an electrical fire. Water acts as a conductor for electricity, so it will make the fire worse. If there is water on your body, do not approach the fire as it may cause electric shock or electrocution.
If it is a large fire, evacuate the building immediately and call the emergency services. If it is a small fire, unplug the appliance or turn off the power at the electrical panel.
You can use a fire extinguisher, but only those labelled as Class C or ABC can be used on electrical fires. Alternatively, you can use baking soda, salt, or dirt to smother the flames. A heavy blanket or clothing can also be used to remove the oxygen source, but only if the fire is small.
Keep heat-producing appliances unplugged when not in use. Be wary of burn marks around sockets, hot power cords, and frayed or worn cords. Avoid running cords under rugs. Ensure outlets are installed properly and keep an eye out for faulty wiring.
