Electrical fires are some of the most common fires nationwide. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, about 51,000 electrical fires happen yearly. There are several ways homeowners can help reduce the likelihood of an electrical fire, such as working with an electrician service. We’ll review some of the main ways electrical fires start and what you can do to prevent them.

Unplug Items Before Bed

Many items get hot when left plugged in. The electrical plug in the wall, as well as the item itself, can get hot. For example, the plug on an electric heater can get so hot that it melts the plastic outlet. We hear about fires around Christmas every year because lights were left plugged in. You can prevent fires by unplugging items when you aren’t using them and monitoring outlets and cables when they are plugged in.

Prompt Electrical Repairs

Electrical malfunctions are another common cause of electrical fires. An outlet may occasionally spark, and while it may not seem like a big deal, it is. Those tiny sparks can start a fire while you’re not home or when the kids are alone, potentially destroying everything and harming your family. Wires may spark inside the walls, igniting insulation and drywall. It’s best to contact an electrician service when you spot a problem to prevent fires.

Regular Electrical Inspections

Hire a professional electrician service to perform regular inspections. If you have an older house, you should do this at least once a year, based on our recommendations. An experienced electrician will carefully inspect outlets and wiring to ensure safety. They can usually update outdated wiring to prevent future problems. Many electricians also inspect features like your breaker box to ensure everything functions properly.

Replace Damaged Cords

Damaged cords are a common cause of fires. Cats and other pets may chew on cords, or they may become damaged over time from regular use. These cords may have small frays that may seem minor, but they can spark when in use, causing an electrical fire. Avoid wrapping damaged cords in electrical tape. Instead, replace them as soon as you notice damage.

Working with a professional electrician service can help you learn more ways to prevent electrical fires. Our technicians can perform thorough inspections and complete repairs as necessary. Contact Main Line Electric today to schedule an appointment.