Most electrical fires don’t come out of nowhere. They usually start with something small that gets ignored: an outlet that feels warm, a cord that’s been pinched under a couch for years, or a breaker that keeps tripping and gets reset one too many times. The good news is that a few simple habits go a long way.
Go easy on outlets and extension cords
Every outlet and circuit can only handle so much. When you plug a power strip into another power strip and run a space heater, a TV, and a game console off it, you’re asking for trouble.
- Use extension cords for short-term needs, not as permanent wiring.
- Never run cords under rugs or furniture where they can get crushed and overheat.
- Plug big appliances like space heaters and window units straight into the wall.
- If you’re always short on outlets in a room, that’s a sign you need more of them, not more power strips.
Give space heaters room
Space heaters are one of the biggest causes of home fires in the winter. Keep them at least three feet from anything that can burn, like curtains, bedding, and furniture. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
Use the right bulbs
Every light fixture has a maximum wattage, usually printed on a sticker inside. A bulb that’s too strong can overheat the fixture and the wiring behind it. Switching to LED bulbs is an easy fix, since they use a fraction of the power and run much cooler.
Keep your smoke alarms working
Test your smoke alarms once a month and change the batteries at least once a year. Smoke alarms wear out too, so replace any alarm that’s 10 years old or older. You want one in every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the house.
Know the warning signs
Call an electrician if you notice any of these:
- Outlets or switch plates that feel warm to the touch
- A burning smell or scorch marks around an outlet
- Buzzing or crackling sounds from outlets, switches, or your panel
- Breakers that trip over and over
- Lights that flicker or dim when other things turn on
Any of these can mean a loose connection or an overloaded circuit, which is exactly the kind of thing that starts fires. If you ever see smoke or flames, get everyone out and call 911 first.
We’re happy to take a look
If something in your house just doesn’t seem right, give us a call. We’ll find what’s causing it, explain it in plain English, and get it fixed right.