How To Put Out an Electrical Fire: Help for Ogden

       Electrical fires are the third most common type of home fire in the United States. Home electrical systems cause more than 51,000 fires every year, resulting in close to 500 deaths, over 1,400 injuries, and more than $1.3 billion in property damage. Ogden business owners and families can reduce their risks by learning what to do when an electrical fire happens.

How To Put Out an Electrical Fire in Ogden

Electrical fires pose all the same risks as other types of fires. Additionally, people attempting to put out a fire can risk electrocution. Follow these steps to safely extinguish electrical fires.

1. Shut Off the Electricity

Turning off the electricity removes the source of the fire. In some cases, this may cause the fire to go out on its own. 

If an appliance or machine is the source of a small fire, unplug it if you can do so safely. If the fire is coming from an outlet or wiring, shut off the power to the room or entire structure at the breaker or fuse box. 

Do not attempt to douse the fire with water. Water conducts electricity and you could electrocute yourself. Water can also cause an electrical fire to spread by conducting electricity throughout the room.

2. Smother Small Fires with Baking Soda or Salt

If you are dealing with a small fire, you may be able to smother it by throwing baking soda or salt on it. Fires need oxygen to burn, and baking soda or salt can cut off the oxygen supply to the flames. 

Don’t throw just any powdered substance on the fire. Substances such as flour and powdered sugar can react with an electrical fire, causing an explosion.

3. Put Out Small Fires with a Heavy Blanket or Clothing

Most people don’t keep large amounts of baking soda or salt on hand, making this method impractical for all but the smallest fires. Fortunately, you can also use a heavy blanket or item of clothing to smother small fires.

A fire blanket is the best choice, but if you don’t have one, any heavy blanket can work. Lay the blanket directly over the base of the flames. Avoid flapping motions. This can fan the flames and make the fire worse. 

4. Spray the Electrical Fire Source with a Class C Fire Extinguisher

If you have a Class C fire extinguisher, use it to spray the part of the fire closest to you and then work away from your body as the fire dies down. Most household extinguishers are Class ABC, making them appropriate for several types of fires, including electrical.

Read the instructions on your fire extinguisher so you know how to use it properly if a fire happens. Regularly maintain and inspect your extinguisher and recharge or replace it as needed. Most fire extinguishers have a life expectancy of 10-12 years.

5. Call 9-1-1

If the fire is too large or you don’t think you can put it out safely, call 9-1-1. Ogden firefighters have the equipment and training necessary to safely extinguish an electrical fire.

Evacuate your home or business immediately. Shut off the power before you go, if you can do so safely. If the fire is in a single room, close the door as you leave. Do not go back into the building until the fire department tells you it is safe.

How To Prevent Electrical Fires in Ogden

While it is important to know what to do when an electrical fire happens, it is better to avoid the fire altogether. These tips can reduce your fire risk.

Maintain Electrical Equipment and Appliances

Check all electrical equipment and appliances to ensure they are in good working condition. Contact a licensed electrician in Ogden to inspect major electrical systems at least once per year. 

Ask your electrician about installing AFCI protection, particularly if your home or building is older. AFCI safety devices detect dangerous conditions that your breakers may not and shut off the electricity before a fire can happen.

Check for signs of damage to electrical outlets and power cords. Always install light bulbs that match the fixture’s recommended wattage.

Use Electrical Appliances and Equipment Properly

Improperly using electrical appliances and equipment increases your electrical fire risk. Read the instruction manuals for your electrical appliances and equipment and follow the safety instructions. Businesses should train all employees on the safe operation of electrical equipment.

Avoid overloading power points and extension cords. Do not use damaged cords or plugs. Never plug heating units or air conditioners into an extension cord. If your existing circuits and outlets cannot handle your electrical load, contact an Ogden electrician to install additional outlets and circuits. 

Watch for Warning Signs

Warning signs of a problem that could lead to an electrical fire include:

• Flickering lights
• Buzzing sounds
• Frequent blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers
• Burning smells

Additionally, you should contact an electrician if you see smoke coming from an appliance, plug, or cord, or notice a discolored outlet. You may also have an electrical problem if you feel a mild electric shock when plugging in an appliance, or notice plugs don’t stay in outlets or cause sparks when you plug them in.

A hot light switch or frayed cables can also indicate a problem. Buildings that have recent water or flood damage or vermin infestations are more susceptible to electrical issues. 

Install Smoke Detectors

65% of home fire deaths happen in homes without working smoke detectors. Installing smoke detectors won’t prevent fires but can minimize the risk to people and property if an electrical fire occurs.

Test your detectors monthly and replace the detectors or batteries as needed. Ogden families can purchase smoke detectors at the Ogden Municipal Building for a discounted rate. 

Electrical Fire Risk Reduction in Ogden

Don’t let an electrical problem in your home or business put you at risk for an electrical fire. All Aboard. provides residential and commercial electric services in Northern Utah. Contact us to schedule an inspection, installation, maintenance, repair, or emergency service.