Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 485 Americans each year and injure 2,305 more.  Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures and appliance defects, but many are caused by the misuse and poor maintenance of electrical appliances, incorrectly installed wiring and overloaded circuits and extension cords.

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) would like customers to know that there are simple steps you can take to prevent the loss of life and property resulting from electrical fires.

During the typical year, home electrical problems account for 67,000 fires, 485 deaths and $868 million in property losses.  Home electrical wiring causes twice as many electrical fires as electrical appliances.

December is the most dangerous month for electrical fires.  Fire deaths are the highest in Winter months which call for more indoor activities and increase in lighting, heating and appliance use.  Most electrical wiring fires start in the bedroom.

Electrical Wiring

• Most Electrical fires result from problems with "fixed wiring" such as faulty electrical outlets and old wiring.  Problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, also cause many home and electrical fires.
• In urban areas, faulty wiring accounts for 33% of residential electrical fires.
• Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electrical cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance and running the cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.

Home Appliances

• The home appliance most often involved in electrical fires are electrical stoves, ovens, dryers, central heating units, television, radios and record players.

• Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
• Frayed wires can cause fires.  Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately.
• Use electric extension cords wisely and don't overload them.
• Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
• When buying electrical appliances, look for products which meet the Underwriters Laboratory (UL) standard for safety.
• Don't allow children to play with or around electrical appliances like space heaters, irons or hairdryers.
• Keep clothes, curtains and other potentially combustible items at least three feet away from all heaters.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet.  Never force it into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Never overload extension cords or wall sockets.  Immediately shut off, then professionally replace light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.  Use safety closure to "child-proof" electrical outlets.
• Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear.  If the cords are frayed or cracked, replace them.  Replace any tool that even causes small electrical shocks, overheats, shorts out or gives off smoke or sparks.

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