Wiktor Wise
Electrical fires can be extremely dangerous and result in fatalities and injuries. They can be caused by a wide range of problems, including faulty wiring, overloaded appliances, or damaged power cords. To prevent electrical appliance fires, it is important to regularly inspect electrical appliances for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires, and to avoid overloading power strips and outlets. If a fire does occur, it is crucial to act quickly and appropriately. For small fires, one can try to smother the flames with baking soda or a fire blanket. If the fire is larger, one should evacuate the premises immediately and call for emergency services. It is important to never use water to extinguish an electrical fire as it can lead to electrocution and spread the fire further.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What to do if there's smoke, fire or a strange odour | Turn off the appliance and the circuit breaker or fuse box's main switch |
| What to do next | Call 911 or your local fire department |
| How to prevent an electrical fire | Use power strips with internal overload protection |
| Replace old or damaged extension cords | |
| Avoid overloading outlets | |
| Use lightbulbs that match the recommended wattage | |
| Do not use extension cords with major appliances | |
| Unplug small appliances when not in use | |
| Keep anything that can burn away from light fixtures and bulbs | |
| Do not overload power strips | |
| Do not daisy-chain outlets and plugs | |
| Ensure appliances and devices are not drawing too much amperage | |
| How to put out an electrical fire | Use a fire extinguisher that is appropriate for electrical fires (Class C) |
| If the fire is small, smother it with baking soda or a fire blanket | |
| If the fire is large, get out and call for help |
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What You'll Learn
Do not use water to extinguish the fire
Water is a natural conductor of electricity. Throwing water on an electrical fire can lead to electrocution or shock. Water may also spread the fire by conducting electricity throughout the room and potentially igniting flammable materials.
In the case of an electrical appliance fire, do not throw water on it. Instead, if it is safe to do so, cut the power. Do not touch the cords attached to the appliance. Go to your breaker box and turn off the power for that room. If the fire is large, get out of the room and call emergency services.
If the fire is small, use a fire extinguisher to put it out. Most residential fire extinguishers are multi-purpose and labelled ABC, but it is crucial to verify this before using it on an electrical fire. Electrical fires are a Class C fire, so you will need an extinguisher that is appropriate for this type of fire. CO2 extinguishers are made for electrical fires.
You can also use baking soda to extinguish an electrical fire. To prevent electrical fires, always use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage for the fixture or lamp. Do not overload power strips. Use power strips that have internal overload protection. Replace worn, old or damaged extension cords immediately. Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched, such as under a carpet or rug.
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Use a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires
If you are experiencing an electrical appliance fire, the first thing to do is not to panic. Electrical fires can be very dangerous and result in severe injuries or even death. It is important to act quickly and use a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires, such as a CO2 or carbon dioxide extinguisher. These extinguishers are ideal as they do not conduct electricity, leave no residue, and do not damage electrical equipment. They work by displacing the oxygen around the fire and cooling it down.
It is crucial to maintain a safe distance from the fire, typically about 8-10 feet, and be prepared to evacuate if the fire becomes uncontrollable or spreads. Do not forget to call the emergency services if needed. Before using a CO2 fire extinguisher, ensure that you are using it in a well-ventilated area and stand with your back to an exit.
To operate the fire extinguisher, pull out the pin at the top of the handle, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, and squeeze the lever slowly. Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire, ensuring that you do not stand too close. Continue this process until the fire is out, and then keep observing the area even after the fire seems to be extinguished.
It is important to note that water-based and foam extinguishers should not be used on electrical fires as they can conduct electricity and lead to electric shock or even cause the fire to spread. Additionally, ensure that your fire extinguisher has been tested for use on electrical fires, as using the wrong type of extinguisher can pose serious dangers and cause irreparable damage to electrical equipment.
Remember, always prioritize your safety first. If the fire is large or you are unsure how to use the fire extinguisher, evacuate the area immediately and call for professional help.
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Cut the power at the source
If you discover an electrical appliance fire, your first priority should be to cut off the power source. Do not attempt to touch the cords attached to the appliance that is on fire. Instead, if it is safe to do so, go to your breaker box and switch off the power to that room or area. If the plug is out of reach, but you can still safely access your electrical panel, you must disconnect the electricity to your home.
If the fire is small and you are confident you can put it out, you can try to smother it. One option is to use baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to cover the flames. This releases carbon dioxide, choking the fire of oxygen and putting it out. Another option is to use a fire blanket, thick clothing, or a heavy blanket to smother the fire and cut off its oxygen supply.
Before attempting to extinguish the fire, always disconnect the power. Water should only be used to put out an electrical fire if the power source has been disconnected first. Water is a conductor of electricity, so throwing water on an electrical fire without first cutting the power could cause electrocution or enable the fire to spread.
If the fire is large or you are unsure how to tackle it, get out of the building and call the emergency services.
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Use baking soda to smother the fire
If you encounter an electrical appliance fire, it is important to act quickly and safely. Firstly, if it is a large fire, evacuate the premises immediately and call the fire department. Do not attempt to extinguish a large fire yourself. However, if the fire is small, you may be able to put it out by cutting off its power source. Do not touch any cords attached to the burning appliance. Instead, locate your breaker box and flip the breaker for that room or area.
If you have a fire extinguisher, you can use it to extinguish the flames. Ensure it is a Class C or ABC-rated extinguisher, as electrical fires are Class C. If you do not have a fire extinguisher, you can use baking soda to smother the fire. Here is a detailed guide on using baking soda for this purpose:
- Locate a box or container of baking soda (also known as sodium bicarbonate). Ensure it is pure baking soda and not baking powder, as baking powder is highly flammable and can cause explosions.
- Carefully approach the fire, being mindful not to touch any burning appliances or affected objects.
- Douse the fire with a generous amount of baking soda. Aim to cover the flames completely. Baking soda works by removing the fire's oxygen supply, effectively smothering it.
- Continue applying baking soda until the fire is completely extinguished.
- Even if the fire seems out, it is crucial to call 911 or your local fire department. They can provide professional guidance and ensure the fire is fully extinguished.
Remember, this method is only recommended for small fires. For larger fires, your priority should be to evacuate and seek professional help immediately. Always have a fire extinguisher accessible and ensure it is suitable for electrical fires.
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Call 911 or your local fire department
If you are unable to extinguish the electrical fire, calling 911 or your local fire department is the next best step. It is important to act quickly as electrical fires can be very dangerous, resulting in injuries and loss of life.
Dial 911 and inform the operator that you have an electrical emergency. Provide them with your location and any other relevant details, such as the extent of the fire and any potential hazards. If possible, stay on the line until help arrives.
If you are unable to make a phone call, or if there is no signal, try to find someone else who can call for help. If no one is available, it may be necessary to evacuate the building and seek help from neighbours or passers-by. Remember, your safety is the top priority.
Calling the fire department should be done as soon as possible after confirming that the fire is uncontainable. Do not delay, as electrical fires can spread quickly and have devastating consequences. The fire department has the necessary equipment and expertise to handle the situation safely and effectively.
Remember, in the case of a large fire, your priority should be to evacuate the building and call for help. Do not attempt to fight the fire if it poses a risk to your safety. Electrical fires can be unpredictable and dangerous, so it is always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional assistance.
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Frequently asked questions
If it is a large fire, evacuate the premises immediately. If it is a small fire, you can try putting it out by smothering it with baking soda or a fire blanket. Once you have unplugged the appliance, cover the flames with baking soda or remove the oxygen source with a fire blanket.
Call 911 or your local fire department to report the incident.
Always plug major appliances directly into a wall outlet and avoid using extension cords. Use power strips with internal overload protection and refrain from overloading outlets. Regularly inspect your electrical appliances for signs of wear and tear, and hire a professional electrician if you notice any issues.
