Electrical fires can be one of the most alarming and disconcerting experiences a person can go through, beginning suddenly and quickly spreading across property and even putting lives in peril. Responding effectively to an electrical fire can be challenging and stressful; in this blog post we will outline steps you can take to manage an electrical fire successfully and protect both yourself and others from further danger.
Step 1: Remain calm and act quickly
At first, when confronted with an electrical fire, the key is staying calm and acting swiftly. Although panic may be natural in such circumstances, allowing panicked thinking to affect judgment and lead to undesirable results. Take some deep breaths before remembering your steps for action.
Step 2: Switch off all electrical devices
If the fire is still manageable, the first step you should take to put out its spread should be turning off the electricity. Electricity fuels fires and increases their severity; by cutting power you’re helping mitigate potential harm to yourself and others. Locate your home’s main electrical fuse box as soon as possible and disable the relevant fuse. If its spread has already spread beyond control do not attempt to switch it off – instead move directly on to the next step.
Step 3: Inform others and evacuate the area
When living with others, it is vitally important that fire alarms are raised early enough so everyone has ample time to evacuate safely and designate an escape route and meeting point outside. If you live alone, make sure that you leave immediately and call for assistance.
Step 4: Call 999
Once everyone in your house has evacuated safely, contact 999 immediately – do not wait or assume someone else will make this call; every second counts when fighting a fire! Fire department professionals possess all of the tools and expertise required to professionally respond and minimise damages caused by them. Provide them with your address and any relevant details – then remain on the line until help arrives.
Step 5: Use a fire extinguisher if appropriate (if deemed safe to do so)
If the fire is small and you have access to CO2 extinguishers nearby, you may attempt to put out the flames yourself. But remember: safety first! Don’t attempt fighting if it is spreading quickly or you feel uncertain how to use your extinguisher; once confident with using one though, remember “P. A.S. S.” as an acronym: Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze handle firmly, and sweep from side-to-side until extinguished.
Step 6: Secure all doors and windows
Closing all doors and windows can help contain a fire by restricting oxygen supply to keep it burning, providing vital time until emergency personnel arrives to take control. This action may give your time until help arrives from local fire departments.
Step 7: Use a fire blanket to extinguish any potential flames that arise
If the fire is small and contained, a fire blanket should suffice in smothering it. This technique cuts off oxygen supply to the flames, helping put out flames quickly. Make sure not to use water on an electrical fire as this could lead to electrocution; fire blankets are great home safety tools with their flameproof material specifically designed to put out flames.
Step 8: Do not enter the building until its safety has been certified
Even if the fire seems to be contained, do not return until instructed by a member of the fire department that it is safe. Smoldering embers could reignite and the structure could become unstable, making re-entering unsafe. Listen carefully to instructions from firefighters before returning.
Step 9: Document the damage
Once a fire is extinguished, it is crucial that damage be documented for insurance purposes. Take photos or videos of affected areas as well as listing all damaged items; this documentation will assist when filing an insurance claim and can help accurately assess its extent.
Step 10: Have an expert evaluate and inspect your electrical system
Once the fire is extinguished and its damage assessed, it is imperative to have your electrical system professionally inspected by a licensed electrician. Electrical fires may have been caused by faulty wiring or other electrical issues which must be rectified to prevent future fires. A licensed electrician is skilled at identifying potential dangers within your system and making any necessary repairs so as to keep your home safe.
Faced with an electrical fire can be daunting and distressing, yet knowing the appropriate steps to take can make a tremendous difference in outcomes. Stay calm, act quickly, prioritize safety above all else, don’t hesitate to seek assistance, don’t try fighting an out of control fire yourself; use these guidelines effectively combat an electrical fire while safeguarding you and your loved ones’ wellbeing.