Every single year in the United States there are over 25,000 electrical fires reported. There are many causes that spark electrical fires. The most common causes are the mishandling of the electrical devices. Too many people think they can manipulate the electrical wiring and components or other electrical devices and even the most miniscule incident can cause an electrical fire that leaves your home damaged or worse. To help minimize the potential of electrical fires, we at Peterkin Electric would like to offer a few tips and suggestions you can regularly apply.

Why Should You Not Overload Your Outlets?

There are likely countless electrical appliances and devices in your home. Unfortunately, the circuits can only hold so, much, and if your home is more than 25 years old and never been upgraded, they are not up to the demand. Overburdening an outlet can easily start an electrical fire. Use safe surge protection devices, install additional outlets, and/or upgrade the circuit breaker to avoid electrical fires.

Monitor Electrical Outlets Near Water Sources

In rooms where there is a lot of moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms, and garages, be sure that GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) outlets are equipped, as they are the safest outlet to use around moisture and water sources.

Avoid Leaving Hazardous Electrical Devices Unattended

It is never wise to leave things like space heaters running when no one is in the room, but your PC or television doesn’t need to be constantly watched over at all times. Appliances in the kitchen are the most common to ignite electrical fires so it is essential to ensure that these outlets and appliances are monitored and well-maintained.

Watch Flammable Materials Near Electrical Cords, Outlets & Heat Sources

Drapes or carpets and other flammable materials that are near appliances, outlets, and electrical devices need to be wary. If left alone for too long, a steady warmth can lead to ignited flammables though the electricity generates heat.

Replace Old & Under-Performing Appliances

When your microwave trips a breaker every time it runs or your box fan spark every time you plug it in, these are signs that indicate something is wrong and it is just a matter of time before an electrical fire can burst. An accidental fire is inevitable if you do not rectify the situation.

Invest in Electrical Safety & Code Inspections

It is unreasonable to expect you to know exactly how old your smoke alarms, wiring, appliances, and lights all are with everything that is involved in a home and keeping it maintained. With the assistance of professionals, you can have the help of keeping your electrical system fully serviced and maintained. A very affordable and optimal service is getting your electrical system inspected annually be a licensed professional.

Electrical Inspections, Emergency Repairs, Fixture Installations & More in Laguna Woods, Santa Ana, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Irvine, Lake Forest & Orange County, California

Peterkin Electric provides electrical services to help our valued customers stay safe. With professional inspections, upgrades, installations, and repairs, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of an electrical fire and keep you, your loved ones, and home safe from potential electrical fires. Call us today!