What You Can Do to Prevent an Electrical Fire

Electrical fires have devastated countless families over the years, causing people to lose their homes. When it comes to running a household, knowledge is power, which is why it is important to know an electrical fire hazard when you see one.

By using a few simple prevention tactics, you will be at a much lower risk of falling victim to an electrical fire. Read the following list of fire prevention tips from our residential electricians at RD Matthews Electrical Contracting.

Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires

Clear space around your electrical outlets

Depending on the layout of your home, it can be difficult to avoid blocking power outlets with furniture. However, it is always best to leave at least a small amount of space in between your outlets and any surrounding objects. Where there is electricity, there is always the potential for overheating. If this is the case, it is important to make sure there is nothing nearby that might catch fire.

Replace older appliances

At RD Matthews Electrical Contracting, we have been performing electrical service work in Northern Virginia for over 25 years. In this time, our electricians have encountered many problems caused by outdated appliances. If you are still using a tumble dryer or stovetop from 1990, you could be at serious risk of an electrical fire.

Unplug heating elements

Some of the main culprits of electrical fires are heating elements such as space heaters, clothing irons, toaster ovens, and more. Before leaving your home, make sure none of these types of appliances are plugged in.

Limit additional power sources

If you do not have access to many power outlets, it may be tempting to purchase multiple power strips or extension cords to expand your options. However, this can be extremely dangerous as your primary electrical outlets could overheat and erupt into flames if they are overworked by these high-powered additions. Be mindful of the number of outlets your home has and how much electricity they are intended to produce.

Call a professional

If you suspect one of your power outlets or electric appliances need repair, do not hesitate to reach out to us for electrical service work in Northern Virginia. Additionally, make sure to have your home assessed by a professional maintenance service at least once a year to ensure there are no fire hazards present in your home.

If you are wondering, where can I find reliable residential electricians near me? Contact us today!