Most electrical fires can be prevented by following electrical safety precautions. Electrical fires result in over $1 billion in property damage annually, hundreds of deaths, and thousands of injuries. Electrical distribution equipment, wiring, and lighting equipment are the primary causes, but not the only causes. Electricraft, Inc.’s San Luis Obispo electricians have been working with local SLO County residents and businesses to promote electrical safety since the company was founded in 1984.
Common electrical issues
Issues that cause overheating, short circuits, and corrosion can lead to failures and fires in both residential and commercial environments.
- Loose connections and faulty wiring, poor installation, aging connections, and damaged wires create heat buildup that can melt insulation and ignite.
- Overloaded circuits can happen by plugging too many devices into a single outlet, power strip, or extension cord, causing wires to overheat and breakers to trip.
- Water leaks, humidity, or flooding can corrode metal parts and cause short circuits. Roof leaks are a common cause of water damage in ceilings and walls that contribute to electrical system damage.
- Power surges, sudden voltage spikes often caused by lightning or heavy electrical machinery, can damage wiring, other components in the electrical system, and appliances and equipment.
- Rodents chew electrical insulation, exposing live wires.
- Improper installation or using the wrong materials.
- Older buildings may have panels and wiring that cannot handle modern energy demands.
Prevention is the first step
Preventing potential damage is the best way to prevent an electrical fire. Regular inspections every three to five years are the best way to prevent damage from becoming a threat.
New builds and remodels always have electrical inspections to make sure the wiring and components are up to code and working efficiently. Other times for inspections include buying or selling a building, installing new appliances in an older home with old wiring.
Prevention steps include:
- Regular inspections by a licensed electrician, such as San Luis Obispo’s Electricraft team.
- Inspections when water or rodent damage is found.
- Keep electrical panels clean and accessible, and label circuits.
- Upgrade damaged or aging components, including wiring.
- Avoid overloading outlets, relying on power strips and extension cords, and connecting power strips and extension cords to one another.
- Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and outdoor outlets. Consider installing arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs).
- Replace damaged cords.
- Switch to LED bulbs where possible to reduce heat, and use the correct bulb for lighting fixtures.
Signs of problems
Don’t hesitate to call your electrician when you notice any of the following signs of electrical problems:
- Frequent breaker tripping.
- Frequently flickering or dimming lights, especially when powering up an electrical device.
- Burning, smoke, sparks, strange odors, or discoloration on outlets and switches.
- Buzzing or crackling sounds from electrical panels.
Turn off the affected circuit, or even the main power switch, and call your electrician immediately. Don’t wait until morning or until Monday. The San Luis Obispo electrician has a 24/7 emergency number, as do most electricians. They expect those phone numbers to be used.
Safety first, always!
When you see smoke or flames, get everyone and your pets out of the house or workplace and call 911. If you can safely turn off the main power switch, do so, but your safety is what’s important.
If you don’t already have one, now is the perfect time to create an emergency plan for home and business. An emergency plan details important things such as escape routes, responsibilities for adults and older children, and a meeting place that is a safe distance from the structure.
The National Fire Prevention Association is a good source for downloading emergency plans and resources. Local emergency services are also good contacts.
San Luis Obispo County offers online emergency planning assistance at prepareslo.org.
