According to the latest statistics, electrical fires account for approximately 51,000 of the house fires each year in the United States. Nearly 500 people die in those fires and more than 1,400 come away injured. They account for $1.3 billion in damages to property. They’re a very real threat and nothing to turn your nose up at. Taking the necessary steps to minimize the risks to your home and family isn’t just worthwhile, it’s arguably your responsibility and duty to do so.
Make Sure Your Smoke Detectors Work
65% of the home fire deaths that occur annually happen in instances where the home has no functional smoke detectors or have otherwise faulty detectors. The most valuable thing you can protect in the event of a house fire is the safety and lives of those in your home. Should something happen, be it electrical or otherwise, you need to make sure there’s a fool-proof system in place to warn you and your about the imminent danger. You can start by changing out your detectors batteries every six months. If you’re looking at getting new detectors, we at Integra have the skillset to help. For optimal protection, we recommend what’s known as dual sensor smoke detectors. These types of systems are encouraged by the U.S Fire Administration to most effectively signal all growing fires as quickly as possible.
Risk Assessment Inspection
Risk management the act of going through the property and isolating potential electrical fire hazards. After a trained professional inspects the property, they can help you determine what steps are the most logical for you to take to mitigate or even outright eliminate those risks. Here are some of the most commonly found electrical fire risk factors found in the average home:
- Faulty electrical outlets (loose frames, wires sticking out, sparking when plugs are inserted, etc.)
- Ungrounded plus
- Extension cord misuse
- Space heaters in general
- Old wiring
- Flammable material ear light fixtures
Use Electrical Outlets Responsibly for Electrical Fire Prevention
All too often people abuse their electrical systems. Overloading outlets, over-using electrical extension cords, and using the wrong type of lightbulb are all huge risk factors for electrical fires. Using space heaters sparingly (if at all) use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the light fixture, and use extension cords sparingly and for brief periods of time.