Electrical Fires: How They Start and How to Put Them Out

Electrical fires pose a unique and often underestimated threat in our homes and can happen at any time. Unlike traditional fires fueled by combustible materials, electrical fires originate from faults in electrical systems, making them challenging to detect and extinguish. 

Understanding these fires and how to protect yourself and your home against them is something everyone should know. Not to worry, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these fires to ensure a safe and relaxing home. 

What is an electrical fire? 

An electrical fire is often categorized by malfunctioning electrical outlets or equipment in a residential home or commercial business. These types of fires result from overheating of electrical components. This result is often because of excessive use, short circuits, and more. 

What causes electrical fires? 

Many things in the home cause an electrical ignition. In fact, electrical fires are the third leading cause of home structure fires. Some of the most common causes include: 

• Overloaded circuits 
• Short circuits 
• Electrical appliances and equipment 
• Overloaded outlets and extension cords 
• Improper use of electrical cords 
• Flammable materials near electrical sources 
• Lightning strikes 
• Electrical system defects 

How can electrical fires start? 

An electrically ignited fire can start in a multitude of ways. Some of the most common scenarios involve overcrowded outlets. This can happen when too many devices are plugged in at once which causes outlets to overheat. 

Malfunctioning equipment is also a common fire starter. Things like circuit breakers, switches, or outlets, can develop faults that lead to electrical fires. Incorrectly installed or poorly maintained electrical systems are more prone to faults and fires as well. 

 One popular starter of electric fires is faulty wiring. Damaged wiring, such as frayed insulation or exposed conductors, can create sparks or generate heat, leading to ignition. Here are some of the most common warning signs of faulty wiring that may lead to a fire in your home:

Can static electricity start a fire? 

Under the right conditions, static electricity can start a fire. According to experts at the Missouri University of Science and Technology, static discharges can be enough to ignite fires. 

Fortunately, the energy released from common activities like rubbing your feet on the floor is typically not sufficient to cause a fire in your home. However, most human-involved static electricity fires start with flammable fuel vapors and gases. This means, that if you were to build up enough of a static charge and then touch a combustible material like gas, you could inadvertently put yourself at risk of starting a fire. 

What does an electrical fire smell like? 

 Most experts associate electrical fires with the smell of burning rubber or burning plastic. The smell comes from the insulation around wires that begin to burn and release chemicals into the air. 

Other signs of an electrical fire can be a hot outlet or smoke. If you suspect or see any of these signs, it’s important to call your local fire department right away as even a small electrical fire can trickle into significant damage and health risks.  

How to stop an electrical fire  

If you encounter an electric blaze in your home, it’s paramount that you know exactly how to handle it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you suspect an electrical fire: 

Step 1: Stay Calm – It’s crucial to remain calm and composed to think clearly and act effectively if you’re amongst a fire. 

Step 2: Cut Off the Power – Quickly locate the main electrical panel or circuit breaker box in your home. Shut off the power to the affected area by flipping the corresponding circuit breaker or removing the fuse. 

Step 3: If the Fire is Small Enough, Douse it with Baking Soda – For small fires (like a toaster fire or a small outlet fire) baking soda helps remove the oxygen from the fire. Before performing this step, be sure you’re using baking soda and not baking powder. Baking powder can cause a significant explosion under the right conditions. 

Step 4: For Larger Fires, Use a Fire Extinguisher – Use a fire extinguisher specifically rated for electrical fires. Remember to aim at the base of the flames and sweep the extinguisher from side to side until the fire is fully extinguished. 

Step 5: Evacuate Safely – If the fire is spreading rapidly or you’re unable to extinguish the fire safely, evacuate the premises immediately. 

Step 6: Call Emergency Services and Do Not Renter – Once safely outside, call emergency services (such as the fire department) to report the fire. Provide them with your location and details about the situation. For your safety, do not enter your home until authorities say it is safe. 

Can you put out an electrical fire with water? 

 If you find yourself at odds with an electrical fire, do not put it out with water! Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Using water to extinguish an electrical fire can result in electric shock or electrocution. 

What type of fire extinguisher should I use for an electrical fire?  

You should use a “Class C” fire extinguisher to put out an electrical fire. This type of extinguisher is specifically designed to douse electrical fires.  

Fire extinguishers are classified into several types: A, ABC, BC, or K. It is important to use the right type of extinguisher on the specific class of fire to avoid personal injury or damage to property. 

How to prevent an electrical fire from starting again 

Once you’ve put out your electrical fire, it’s important to take steps to ensure this never happens again. Here are some of our most helpful tips for electrical fire prevention: 

1. Conduct regular inspections of your electrical system. Be sure to inspect outlets, wiring, and switches on your appliances.  
2. Schedule regular maintenance by a qualified electrician to inspect and maintain your electrical system. 
3. Install surge protectors to safeguard sensitive electronics and appliances from power surges. 
4. Unplug your appliances when not in use. Even when they’re plugged in, appliances still draw energy which can increase the risk of a fire. 
5. Keep flammable materials such as paper, cloth, or chemicals away from electrical outlets. 
6. Install smoke detectors and fire alarms throughout your home. 

Electrical cord safety tips 

1. Check electrical cords regularly for signs of damage, such as fraying, cuts, or exposed wires. 
2. Use cords that are rated for the intended use and environment. Indoor cords should not be used outdoors, and vice versa. 
3. Do not overload electrical cords by plugging too many devices into a single outlet. 
4. When unplugging devices, grasp the plug itself rather than pulling on the cord. 
5. Keep electrical cords away from water, moisture, and heat sources. 
6. Avoid placing cords in high-traffic areas where they can be stepped on or tripped over.  
7. If a plug is damaged or loose-fitting, replace it immediately to prevent electrical hazards. 

These fires present a unique threat in our homes and workplaces, originating from faults within our electrical systems. Understanding the causes and characteristics of electrical fires empowers us to take proactive measures to prevent them from occurring. We hope we’ve helped make your home a safer place!