Electrical fires pose a major risk to your home and family's safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association, 10% of home fires in the United States are electrical fires. They lead to severe damage and loss of property. They also cause harm to your family. To ensure your safety and avoid being a statistic, take a look at how to prevent electrical fires.

1. Inspect Your Electrical Outlets and Wiring

It would be best if you inspect your electrical outlets and wiring regularly to prevent electrical fires. Ensure that all your electrical outlets are tightly fitted to the wall. Wiring does not last forever. Wiring issues can cause sparks and fires. Call your local electrician if your electrical outlets are loosely fitted or have faulty wiring to eliminate potential fire hazards.

2. Don't Overload Your Electrical Outlets

An electric circuit can provide a specific amount of power to each outlet at one time. Overloading an outlet could do more harm than good as it could cause sparks and start an electrical fire. Plug in the specified number of devices to reduce overloading.

3. Keep Flammable Items Away

Flammable items can create burnable mixtures with air. They also catch and spread fire quickly. Keeping flammable items like cleaning supplies, chemicals, and blankets near your electrical outputs and wires can easily cause electrical fires. Keep these items away to protect your home from electrical fires.

4. Use Surge Protection Devices

Surge protection devices protect appliances and other things plugged into an outlet from power surge risks. A severe power surge can increase the electricity voltage flowing to your outlet, making your appliances spark and even cause a fire. Using surge protection devices will protect you from electrical fires caused by a power surge. Consult your local electrician if you're not sure of which surge protection devices to purchase. The electrician will recommend the best surge protectors for your specific appliances.

5. Disconnect Appliances When Not in Use

Many people are fond of keeping appliances connected even when not in use. Once you have finished using them, it will help if you get in the habit of disconnecting appliances like hair dryers, kettles, and blenders. This will prevent electrical fires caused by these appliances.

Preventing electrical fires is crucial in enhancing safety and security in your home. Follow these tips to eliminate fire hazards and prevent electrical fires. Seek the services of your local technician if you have any electrical issues that could cause a fire.