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SERVPROSERVPRO of Springfield and Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, Macoupin, Montgomery Counties
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(217) 528-7775

Extinguishing Electrical Fires

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

During these cold months, we tend to use a lot more electricity while heating our homes. We use a lot more electricity lighting our homes. We spend more time inside our homes being entertained by our electronics. We do not think twice about flipping a switch or plugging something into an outlet. Electricity is a normal part of our day to day lives, therefore, we sometimes forget that it can be quite dangerous. The dangers of our daily electricity can harm us in the way of shocking or even electrocuting us, it can also cause a fire. Electrical fires need to be handled with extreme care and caution. Our number one concern is for your safety. Please do not try to extinguish a large fire that is out of control. Please be sure to have a fire escape plan for you and your family and immediately call 911. Things are replaceable, YOU ARE NOT. Stay safe and allow SERVPRO of Springfield to take care of you and your belongings.

IF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE STARTS

  1. If the device that is causing the electrical fire is found, and you can reach the cord and outlet safely, unplug it. 
  2. If the fire is small, you may put it out by smothering it with baking soda.
  3. It may also be put out by removing the oxygen source with clothing or a heavy blanket if the fire is small and it is safe to do so.
  4. Don’t use water to put it out. Water is a natural conductor of electricity and if you throw water on an electrical fire, you can get shocked or electrocuted. Also, water may enable fire to spread by conducting electricity throughout the room and potentially igniting flammable materials.
  5. Check your fire extinguisher. Electrical fires are a class C fire, which means you will need an extinguisher that is appropriate for this type of fire. Most residential fire extinguishers are multi-purpose and labeled ABC, but it is crucial to verify this before using it on an electrical fire. 

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE ELECTRICAL FIRE

  1. GET OUT. You and any family members need to leave as soon as you can to prevent injury or loss of life. Do not try to be a hero.
  2. Close the door as you leave to contain the fire.
  3. Call 911 as soon as you are at a safe distance from the fire. 
  4. Do not re-enter your home until the fire has been contained by firefighters. 

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield, Sangamon, Morgan, Cass, and Montgomery counties is always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.

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