If you’re searching the internet for “how to put out an electrical fire,” don’t panic. To put out an electrical fire, unplug the device or remove the power source from the area. Then, use a Class C fire extinguisher, cover the fire with a fire blanket, or smother the flame with baking soda (if it’s a small electrical fire). If you cannot control the fire, warn the others in the building, evacuate everyone immediately, and call the fire department.
Electrical fires can spread quickly, and knowing how to put one out safely can save you from a life-threatening situation. Due to the presence of electricity, these fires require a specific approach. It’s essential to stay calm, act swiftly, and follow the right steps to reduce the risk of injury or further damage.
If you want to help further protect yourself, your family, and your home from the risk of electrical fires, contact the Tyler, TX, electricians at Lex Air East Texas. We offer expert electrical inspections and maintenance to help protect your home wiring and appliances from fire and ensure your home is up-to-code.
Call (903) 833-9510 to receive a free quote from us today!
How to Stop an Electrical Fire
Knowing how to stop an electrical fire quickly can make all the difference in preventing further damage or injury. Here are some essential steps you can take to safely extinguish an electrical fire.
Remove Power Source
Immediately turn off the power to the affected area. Locate your breaker box and shut off the circuit supplying electricity to the fire. If safe, unplug the device causing the fire. This can reduce the risk of the fire spreading to other objects in your home.
Smother With Baking Soda
Grab a box of baking soda and sprinkle it directly onto the flames. Baking soda contains sodium bicarbonate, which, when heated, releases carbon dioxide. This can help extinguish small electrical fires, but may not be effective on larger electrical fires.
Cover With Fire Blanket
Place a fire blanket over the flames to cut off oxygen to the flame and quickly extinguish the fire. Ensure the blanket completely covers the fire, and leave it in place until the flames are fully out. Like with baking soda, this would be more effective on a small fire rather than a larger fire.
Use Electrical Fire Extinguisher
Grab a Class C fire extinguisher, aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, squeeze the handle, and sweep side to side until the fire is out. A Class C fire extinguisher uses non-conductive extinguishing ingredients, including carbon dioxide which can suffocate the fire, and dry chemical powders which can disperse the fire.
You may also be able to use an ABC fire extinguisher to put out an electrical fire, since these fire extinguishers are made to be multipurpose. Do not use any other type of fire extinguisher on an electric fire, as it may worsen the fire or cause more harm than good.
Never Put Water on Electrical Fire
It’s important that you never put water on an electrical fire to put it out. Water can conduct electricity, which can create a serious electrocution hazard and increase the risk of spreading the fire. Water is not safe for electrical fires and can make the situation more dangerous.
Call Local Fire Department
If the fire is not immediately contained or begins to spread to other combustible materials near the fire, evacuate the area and call 911 or your local fire department. Depending on where you are, that may be the Tyler Fire Department.
Trained professionals have the tools and expertise to safely handle larger electrical fires. Do not reenter the area until it is declared safe.
Signs of Electrical Fire
Electrical fires often start subtly, but recognizing the warning signs early can prevent a dangerous situation. Below are some common signs of an electrical fire:
- Burning smell near outlets or appliances
- Discolored or scorched wall outlets
- Frequent tripping of circuit breakers
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Unusual buzzing or crackling sounds
- Hot or sparking electrical outlets
If you notice any of these signs, act quickly to address the issue and ensure your safety. Turn off power to the affected area and contact a licensed electrician immediately. If a fire has already broken out, take the necessary steps and contact your local fire department.
What Does an Electrical Fire Smell Like?
Electrical fires often smell like burning plastic or overheated metal. You might notice a sharp, acrid odor near outlets, appliances, or breaker boxes. This smell occurs when electrical wiring or components overheat and start to melt or burn.
If you detect this odor, locate the source, turn off the power to the area, and call a local licensed electrician or the local fire department, if there is a fire. The smell of an electrical fire may not be enough to trigger your home’s smoke detectors, so it’s important to know what these problems smell like.
The electrical professionals at Lex Air East Texas can help ensure that your home is protected from dangerous electrical hazards, and can help repair or replace the components causing the smell.
How to Prevent Electrical Fires
Preventing electrical fires starts with being proactive about your home’s electrical safety. Avoid overloading outlets, replace damaged cords, and unplug appliances when not in use. Do not run extension cords or power strips under rugs, and stay vigilant when using high-powered electrical devices such as power tools or portable space heaters.
Schedule routine electrical inspections with a licensed electrician to identify and fix hidden hazards like faulty wiring or outdated panels. Installing whole-home surge protectors and arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) outlets or circuit breakers can add extra layers of protection against electrical fire risks.
By combining personal safety habits with professional maintenance, you can significantly reduce the chances of an electrical fire. If you’re looking for professional assistance with electrical fire protection, contact Lex Air East Texas today.
We can provide rewiring services in Tyler, TX, to update your home’s wiring system, and whole home surge protection to ensure that you’re safe from unexpected power surges
Professional Electrical Inspections in Tyler, TX
Protect your home and family by preventing electrical fires with our professional electrical inspection in Tyler. Our licensed electricians at Lex Air East Texas thoroughly examine your wiring, outlets, breaker panels, and other components to identify potential hazards before they escalate.
We replace faulty wiring, upgrade outdated electrical components, and ensure your home meets current safety standards. Regular inspections give you peace of mind and help you avoid dangerous and costly electrical issues.
Electrical Fire Q&A
How Do Electrical Fires Start?
Electrical fires start when wiring, outlets, or electrical appliances overheat or experience a short circuit. Common causes include damaged cords, overloaded outlets, or outdated electrical systems. Faulty equipment or improper installation can also trigger sparks that ignite nearby materials.
What Are Class C Fire Extinguishers Made Of?
Class C fire extinguishers contain non-conductive extinguishing agents, such as carbon dioxide or dry chemicals like monoammonium phosphate. These materials safely smother electrical fires without conducting electricity.
Can You Put Water On an Electrical Fire?
No, you should never use water to put out an electrical fire. Water conducts electricity and increases the risk of shock or spreading the fire. Instead, use a Class C fire extinguisher or smother the flames with baking soda or a fire blanket.
Stay Safe With Electrical Inspection Services from Lex Air East Texas–Call and Schedule Yours Today!
Don’t let your home’s electrical system become a serious fire hazard. At Lex Air East Texas, our team is here to help protect your home from electrical fires with professional electrical inspections and maintenance. Our Tyler electrical maintenance team can identify and address potential hazards before they become serious problems.
A professional electrical inspection can not only enhance your home’s safety but also improve the efficiency and reliability of your electrical system. Our team uses the latest tools and techniques to ensure your system meets modern safety standards, giving you peace of mind and helping you avoid costly repairs down the line.
Ready to protect your home from hazards? Call us at (903) 833-9510 or contact us via our online contact form to request a free quote from us regarding our services.