Dealing with a blaze of any kind can be alarming. Electrical fires, in particular, may take you aback because they often start without warning. There are several signs that might tip you off, though, and recognizing them in advance could prevent serious issues in the future. Here’s what you should know—and when you should contact an electrician.

What Causes Electrical Fires?

It’s not uncommon for electrical fires to develop in homes and commercial buildings. Among the most common causes is faulty electrical wiring. There are several reasons that wires may pose a threat to your safety. Age is one of the most likely, but it’s also possible for pesky critters, like squirrels and rats, to chew through the wiring. In some cases, the culprit may be poor workmanship on the part of the original electrician. If you use extension cords to power multiple appliances, then you might cause your system to overload. In older homes, this is particularly troubling because aging wiring is not designed to support modern electrical loads.  

You can prevent a catastrophic problem by contacting an electrician to assess the condition and quality of your existing wiring. This is especially crucial if your sockets have been shocking you or if they have been emitting a strange smell. During their assessment, they’ll determine whether upgrading the breaker box is an efficient solution or whether you need to consider rewiring the entire property. Sometimes the latter is the only way to avoid potential fires and to ensure that your home meets current building code guidelines.

How Should You Deal With a Fire?

If you have to deal with an electrical fire, remain calm and think clearly. Make sure everyone is out of harm’s way. Then, if you can do so safely, turn off the power source where the fire began. For example, unplug the microwave if it catches on fire or turn off the power to the source in the breaker box.

While it’s tempting to simply douse the flames with a bucket of water, this is a very dangerous move. Water could cause a shock if there’s still electricity in the area, and you or someone else could end up severely injured. Instead, contact your local authorities to assist in putting out the fire. Certain fire extinguishers are also coded specifically for electrical blazes.

Homeowners throughout Beatrice, NE, turn to the qualified electricians at Philippi Electric when they need help with their wiring. The company offers 25 years of industry experience, and their licensed professionals are committed to your safety and satisfaction. Whether you need to repair your breaker box or install new electrical equipment, you can trust them to provide quality services at reasonable rates. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings. Or call them at (402) 520-1757 to arrange an appointment.