On the Safety Circuit
A Factsheet on Home Electrical Fire Prevention
Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 200 Americans each
year and injure 1,500 more. Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures
and appliance defects, but many more are caused by the misuse and poor maintenance of
electrical appliances, incorrectly installed wiring, and overloaded circuits and extension
cords.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) would like consumers to
know that there are simple steps you can take to prevent the loss of life and property
resulting from electrical fires.
THE PROBLEM
During a typical year, home appliance and wiring problems account
for 49,000 fires, hundreds of deaths, and $670 million in property losses. Home electrical
wiring causes twice as many fires as electrical appliances.
THE FACTS
December is the most dangerous month for electrical fires. Fire
deaths are highest in winter months which call for more indoor activities and increases in
lighting, heating, and appliance use. Most electrical wiring fires start in the bedroom.
THE CAUSE
Home Appliances
- Most electrical fires result from problems with "fixed
wiring" such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. In urban areas, however,
problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, are the primary
cause of home electrical fires.
- Electric stoves are involved in 53 percent of home appliance-related
fires. However, these fires are mostly the result of careless cooking rather than the
stove's malfunction.
- Electric stoves and fixed heating units cause the most residential
fire deaths, while electric stoves and portable heaters are the leading cause of
residential fire injuries.
Electrical Wiring
- In urban areas, faulty wiring accounts for 28 percent of residential
electrical fires.
- Nearly 30 percent of home electrical wiring fires can be traced to
the misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running
the cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
- Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
- Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old, or damaged
appliance cords immediately.
- Use electrical extension cords wisely and don't overload them.
- Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay
special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
- When buying electrical appliances look for products which meet the UL
standard for safety.
- Don't allow children to play with or around electrical appliances
like space heaters, irons and hair dryers.
- Keep clothes, curtains and other potentially combustible items at
least three feet from all heaters.
- If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot
outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
- Never overload extension cords or wall sockets. Immediately shut off,
then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that
flicker. Use safety closures to "child-proof" electrical outlets.
- Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear. If the cords
are frayed or cracked, replace them. Replace any tool if it causes even small electrical
shocks, overheats, shorts out or gives off smoke or sparks.
Finally, having a working smoke detector dramatically increases your
chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with
your family.
For More Information Contact:
The United States Fire Administration
Office of Fire Management Programs
16825 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
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