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Electrical fires can result in costly fire and smoke damage to commercial properties. As a business owner, it is up to you to help maintain an environment free of fire hazards. This guide pinpoints some common danger signs to be on the lookout for and to share with your staff.

3 Signs That an Electrical Fire Hazard Exists 

1. Exposed Wires

Electrical wires are covered with insulation and a plastic coating to ensure they’re not exposed to the air and each other. However, the outer covering of the wires will degrade over time or can be chewed off by pests, increasing the risk of a fire.

Ask for a safety inspection if your lights have been flickering or if your outlets vibrate, feel warm, or have scorch marks. An electrician can replace exposed wiring, keeping your commercial building safe.

2. Circuit & Fuse Overloads

smoke damageIn an older building, it’s normal to blow a fuse from time to time. However, if your business is frequently blowing fuses, this is a sign that you’re trying to draw too much power from your existing system. Having to frequently reset your circuit breakers is indicative of the same problem.

Using more electricity than the system can handle increases the chances of an overload, which can result in fire and smoke damage. The best way to correct this problem is to have an electrician update your system—by adding new circuits or replacing the electric panel—to handle your power needs.

3. Hot Appliances

If your employees report that using appliances, such as the break room coffee maker, gives them an electrical shock, this can also indicate a fire hazard. Discontinue using the appliance and replace it with a new one. If the problem extends to multiple appliances, call an electrician. 

 

When you suspect an electrical fire hazard exists in your commercial building, turn to Saint Louis, MO’s Elite Contracting & Consulting. They serve customers throughout southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, and northwest Kentucky. In addition to diagnosing the cause of electrical shocks and tripped breakers, they can provide system repairs and replacements. Should a fire break out, they also offer restoration services for smoke damage. To learn about their full range of services, visit them online. You can request a free quote by calling (314) 797-5220.

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