Electrical failures or malfunctions are responsible for nearly 34,000 home fires each year, leading to approximately 440 deaths and causing $1.3 billion in direct property damage, as reported by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). This issue is particularly concerning for homes built before the 1950s, when electrical wiring standards were not as rigorous as they are today. However, even newer homes face the risk of electrical fires. Early homes that had electrical services up to around the 1950's were designed to handle only 30-50 amps of power, whereas modern homes typically require 200 amps. This increased demand places substantial stress on a home's wiring and electrical system.

By understanding the common causes, recognizing warning signs, and implementing appropriate safety measures, you can effectively prevent electrical fires in your home. The primary causes of electrical fires include:

• Incorrectly installed wiring

• Overloaded circuits and extension cords

• Defective or improper plugs, switches, and outlets

• Misuse and poor maintenance of lighting

Warning Signs of Faulty Wiring or Electrical Systems

To avoid an electrical fire, it's important to identify warning signs of potential wiring or electrical issues. If you encounter any of the following problems in your home, promptly contact a licensed electrician to inspect and fix the electrical issues:

• Lights that flicker or dim

• Switches or outlets that feel hot to the touch and/or release a strong odor

• Cords, outlets, and switch plates that are discolored

• Fuses that blow repeatedly and circuit breakers that trip often

Ensure the Safety of Home Wiring Systems

It is essential for every homeowner to know at least one licensed electrician who can ensure the safety of their home's wiring system. Licensed electricians can assist with the following:

• Ensure any electrical changes comply with current codes

• Inspect and fix outlets and switches

• Examine a home and carry out necessary repairs before you purchase and move in

• Replace old or faulty fuses and circuit breakers and provide guidance on proper usage.

If your home was constructed between 1965 and 1973, consider having the aluminum wiring checked. During this period, wall sockets, switches, and cable connections often present issues because aluminum wiring oxidizes and deteriorates faster than copper wiring. If a complete household rewiring is not feasible, copper connector “pigtails” can help reduce some of the risks and issues associated with aluminum wiring.

The Risks of DIY

When a wire is punctured but not completely cut, the electric current can deviate from its path, generating a significant amount of heat. This current leakage is known as an arc fault. The heat produced by an arc fault can eventually ignite a fire, which may rapidly spread to nearby wood, other combustibles, and additional wiring. Be particularly cautious during home renovations to avoid damaging any wires when hammering or drilling into walls.

Using a stud finder to identify framing studs behind drywall can also help prevent arc faults. By nailing only into studs, you can avoid hitting and damaging hidden wiring. Stud finders typically cost less than $20.

Safety for Cords, Outlets, and Plugs

Wiring, switches, plugs, and appliances carrying electric currents produce heat. Excessive or uncontrolled heat can lead to fires. To help prevent electrical fires, it's important to know how to use and store plugs and electrical cords properly. Consider these precautions:

• Avoid running cords under carpets, bedding, or other flammable materials, and do not place cords across doorways or high-traffic areas.

• Dispose of frayed or damaged cords, and never join two cords together.

• Do not overload outlets or use extension cords as a substitute for outlets. If needed, contact an electrician to install more outlets.

• Make sure plugs fit tightly in outlets to prevent shock and overheating.

Ensuring Lighting Safety

Combustible materials such as drapery, bedding and upholstered furniture may ignite when exposed to hot bulbs. Follow these safety tips to help prevent light bulbs from causing electrical fires:

• Purchase lamps and fixtures certified by underwriter’s laboratories (UL), an independent and not-for-profit safety testing and certification organization.

• Use the right light bulb wattage for all lamps and fixtures.

• Position lamps away from open windows where strong breezes may blow draperies onto hot light bulbs. Lampshades can also prevent combustible materials from direct contact with a hot bulb.

Electrical fires are among the most dangerous forms of combustion due to how quickly they can spread and grow out of control. By following the information above, you can help reduce the chances of an electrical fire occurring in your home.