We would like everyone to know that there are simple steps that can be taken to prevent the loss of life and property resulting from electrical fires.

According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 700 Americans each year and injure 3,000 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. During a typical year, home electrical problems account for 90,000 fires, over 700 deaths, and $700 million in property losses. Home electrical wiring causes twice as many fires as electrical appliances.

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 following safety precautions will help you prevent an electrical fire in your home:

Electrical Wiring:

Most electrical fires result from problems with "fixed wiring" such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring. Problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, also cause many home electrical fires.

Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running the cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.

Home Appliances:

The home appliances most often involved in electrical fires are electric stoves and ovens, dryers, central heating units, televisions and radios.

When using appliances, follow the manufacturer's safety precautions. Overheating, unusual smells, shorts, sparks and sputters are all warning signs that appliances need to be shut off, then replaced or repaired. Have an electrician check the wiring in your house. Unplug appliances when not in use.

Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
 

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 Underwriter's Laboratory (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 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.