Causes of Electrical Fires

7/7/2020 (Permalink)

Faulty outlets can be a source for an electrical fire.

On average, 24000 electrical fires occur in the U.S. per year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. 

The top causes of electrical fires are the following:

• Faulty outlets/appliances. Never use an appliance or a cord that is frayed or chewed. In addition, do not run cords under rugs.
• Light Fixtures. Light fixtures, lamps and light bulbs can all be sources of an electrical fire. These could occur by installing a bulb with too high of wattage or placing items on top of a lamp shade. 
• Extension cords. Misuse of these cords can cause fires, as they should not be used all the time rather appliances should be plugged into outlets. 
• Space heaters. Heaters often are left in front of/on combustible surfaces like curtains, rugs. Coil heaters are the most dangerous. 
• Wiring. Outdated wiring can also be a source of fire. If a home is over 20 years old, the wiring may not have the ability to handle appliances in today's homes.