Preventing an electrical fire and the fire damage that comes along with it is possible. There will always be accidents, but there are a number of measures you can take to help save your family and home. Most electrical safety and fire prevention methods are common sense, but it is important to actually practice them. Everyone knows you shouldn’t plug too many things into one outlet, but do we anyway? Appliances tend to straddle the line between safe and unsafe, and that is often ignored. And simply knowing the capacity of your home’s electrical system could help prevent fire damage. If you would like three reminders on how you can prevent an electrical fire, read on.
Over-Burdened Outlets
Whether in the kitchen, TV room, or bedroom, certain outlets always seem to be the favorite. There’s the outlet that’s in the perfect spot for all the TV appliances or the bedside outlet that needs to provide you with light, phone and computer charging, and whatever other odd things you can think of. The reality is that certain outlets get overused, while others see no use at all. You risk overextending an outlet when you add just one more plug to an already crowded outlet. An outlet that is continually overused will go the way of most overworked things, it will burn out.
Appliance Safety
Appliance safety is an important part of preventing electrical fires. You should unplug small appliances like toasters and crock pots when they’re not in use. For bigger appliances, make sure the hook-up you have is generating the correct amount of electricity. And of course, make sure that all electric appliances stay far away from water. Practicing these few safety measures can save you, your family, and your home.
Check for Bad Wiring
A common problem with older homes is old wiring. If you have an older home or are looking to buy one, it is advised that you hire a professional to inspect the electrics. Old wiring is not always detrimental, but it is better to know what you are working with as a precaution. Knowing you have old wiring can help you strategically plan your outlet use. Also, if you know you have old wiring, you can choose to have it replaced. Knowing what is in your house is always the best course of action.
For the most part, preventing an electrical fire is common sense. If you take care of your electrical system and appliances, you are less likely to experience an electrical fire. However, not all fires and fire damage can be prevented. In some circumstances, preventative measures just don’t stop the problem. If you are in this situation and have experienced the damaging effects of an electrical fire, you are not alone. American Fire & Water Restoration is here to help you restore your home. Give us a call at (847) 514-9305.