How To Put Out an Electrical Fire

What's an Electrical Fire, Anyway?

You might think a fire is a fire, but electrical fires are a different beast. They’re usually caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or old, worn-out electrical systems. Ever wonder why electricians always harp on regular maintenance? That’s why.

Imagine this: You’ve plugged in too many devices, and suddenly, the outlet sparks and flames erupt. It’s not like dousing a campfire. Throwing water on it? Big mistake.

Step One: Stay Calm

It’s easier said than done, right? But panicking only makes things worse. Take a deep breath. Then assess the situation: Is the fire small and manageable, or do you need to evacuate immediately?

Step Two: Cut the Power

The first rule of fighting an electrical fire? Stop the electricity. If it’s safe to do so, head to your circuit breaker and shut off the power. This step alone can prevent the fire from spreading. Don’t know where your breaker is? Make finding it a priority, today, not tomorrow.

Step Three: Use the Right Tools

Got a fire extinguisher handy? You’ll need one labeled “Class C” for electrical fires. These are specially designed to deal with fires involving live electricity. If you’re unsure, check the label; it’s worth the extra second.

No extinguisher? Baking soda can smother small electrical fires. Just don’t grab the flour, it’s flammable.

What About Water?

Here’s the thing: Never use water on an electrical fire. Why? Water conducts electricity, and you could end up shocking yourself. That’s the last thing anyone needs.

Step Four: Call for Help

Even if you’ve managed to extinguish the fire, it’s critical to call for professional help. Dial 911 and ensure firefighters inspect the area. Once the flames are out, contact an electrician near me to assess the damage.

Prevention: The Best Cure

Let’s be honest, no one wants to deal with an electrical fire in the first place. Prevention is your best friend. Regular electrical inspections from a Southern Indiana electrician can catch potential problems before they turn dangerous.

A Few Simple Tips:

• Don’t overload outlets.

• Replace frayed cords immediately.

• Keep flammable materials away from outlets and appliances.

• Invest in surge protectors.

Need a trusted expert? The team at Get Wired Electric LLC is here to help.

A Quick Word on Old Wiring

Living in an older home? Your wiring might be outdated. Older systems weren’t designed to handle today’s power demands. If your lights flicker or you smell burning, don’t ignore it. Call a professional electrician ASAP.

The Emotional Toll

It’s not just the physical damage, an electrical fire shakes your sense of security. That’s normal. Take the time you need to process and recover. Remember, rebuilding your home starts with rebuilding your peace of mind.

Why Choose Get Wired Electric LLC?

Here’s what sets us apart: We’re more than just electricians. We’re your neighbors, dedicated to keeping Southern Indiana homes safe. Whether it’s routine maintenance or an emergency call, we’ve got your back.

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