Understanding The Research On Electrical Fires May Help You Avoid One In Your Home

5/11/2021 (Permalink)

Aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults.

Electrical Fires In Washington DC

Fires involving electrical failures or malfunctions accounted for the highest share of civilian deaths (18%) and direct property damage (20%). This is according to a National Fire Protection Association report that was done in 2019.

Home electrical fires can start in wiring, electrical distribution systems, and lighting equipment, as well as in any equipment powered by electricity such as cooking, heating, office and entertainment equipment, washers and dryers, as well as electrical distribution or lighting equipment.

If you own an older home in the Washington DC area it's important that you have your outlets and wiring checked. Aging electrical systems in older homes can be a source of arc faults, either through normal wear and tear or because the systems cannot accommodate the greater demands of modern appliances.

Proper care of electrical outlets and appliances will help to prevent electrical fires. It is very important to follow manufacturer guidelines when using electrical appliance and systems, such as the wattage guidelines given when changing lightbulbs.

Be sure that you do not plug in too many electrical units into one outlet, as this could burn out the outlet and cause a fire. Be sure that you have your wiring checked regularly by an electrician.

Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires and is a common problem in homes. If you hear a sparking sound near a particular electrical outlet or appliance, or see smoke or smell burning after plugging a unit in, immediately unplug the object and call an electrician to check your wiring.

The NFPA report also points out that smoke detectors are important. Home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction are less likely to occur in the overnight hours between midnight and 8 a.m. (22% of total), but these fires account for 60% of the civilian deaths. Working smoke alarms can provide an early warning of fire and allow additional time for evacuation.

The peak months for home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction are November through March (47% of total), and these fires account for 52% of the civilian deaths. Having this information can be helpful when it comes to prevention. It is also helpful to know who to call if you have fire damage in Washington DC.

Fire Damage In Your Home

SERVPRO of Washington DC specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration and we are an IICRC Certified Firm.

Training And Experience

We believe in continuous training: from initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Quick Response Around Washington DC

We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Give us a call if you have questions about fire damage or the restoration process. SERVPRO of Washington DC (202) 737-8776.

SERVPRO of Washington DC provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster.