Common Causes of House Fires, Part III

10/27/2019 (Permalink)

Keep safe by avoiding misuse of extension cords and outlets!

We’re back with Common Causes of House Fires, Part III! Today we are talking about fires caused by misuse of electrical cords and outlets.  The U.S. Fire Administration says that Americans experience 25,000 electrical fires a year with Two-thirds of all electrical fires begin in plugs or cords. Sadly, many of those fires happening during the holiday season.  Follow these best practices to keep you, your family, and your home safe.

 Best Practices:

• Inspect electrical cords and outlets at least once a year
  • Tip: Warning signs include: flickering lights, buzzing sounds, odor
• Replace any frayed or damage cords, even if damage appears minimal
• Limit number of appliances to 2 per cords and outlets
• Do not “piggyback” cords
• Do not place extension cords under rugs
• Do not remove the third prong to fit into a two-prong outlet
• Avoid using extension cords for space heaters and air conditioners

We hope that you have found this information helpful.   Please take extreme care when you are smoking and using candles. Remember to stay attentive, use caution, and follow these safety tips. 

While we all hope for the best and cannot imagine a fire happening the reality is it happens more often that we want to recognize.  Hope for the best, plan for the worst.  So be sure to 1. Have plenty of smoke alarms in your home and 2. have an emergency escape plan. 

If the unthinkable happens it is important to react safely and quickly. Here’s what to do:

• Get out! If possible close the door behind you when you leave to help contain the fire.
• Call 9-1-1, wait for emergency responders, do not attempt to put the fire out by yourself.
• Call your homeowner's insurance company to begin the claim process.
• Call SERVPRO of The Windsors for an emergency response, we’ll walk you through the rest.