Avoid Home Fires: Unplug Your Extension Cord When not in Use

Avoiding home fires caused by extension cords is simple: unplug it when not in use.

Many homeowners use extension cords because they are convenient when outlets are not available. But these cords can be dangerous if not used properly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, almost half of all home fires originate from electrical problems, and extension cords are a common cause of these fires.

Tips to Avoid Residential Fires Caused by Extension Cords

1. Unplug your extension cord when not in use.

This is the simplest way to prevent a fire. If you’re not using an extension cord, unplug it from the wall.

2. Never overload your extension cord.

This is another common cause of fires. Make sure you’re not using more than the recommended number of plugs for the extension cord.

3. Ensure your extension cord is in good condition.

If the cord is frayed or damaged, it could spark a fire. Replace any damaged cords immediately.

4. Keep your extension cords away from heaters and other sources of heat.

Extension cords should never be used near heaters, fires, or other heat sources.

5. If possible, use surge protectors.

Surge protectors can help protect your appliances from power surges, which can also cause fires.

6. Check the outlet before plugging in your appliance.

If the outlet feels hot, never use it. Find another outlet to plug your appliance into.

7. Never run an extension cord under a rug.

This is a common cause of fires. Extension cords should never be covered with anything, as they can block the heat and cause the cord to overheat.

What to Do If a Fire Occurs

Get Out and Call 911

If you see a fire in your home, get out and call 911. Don’t try to put the fire out yourself.

On the other hand, keep emergency contact numbers near the phone. These include your local fire department, police station, poison control center, Red Cross, restoration companies, etc.

Extinguish Appliances

If a fire starts in an appliance, such as a stove or oven, try to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher. Make sure you know how to use the extinguisher before trying to put out the fire.

If the fire spreads or if you can’t extinguish it, get out and call 911.

Avoid Water

There are three classes of fire, including Class A, B, and C. A fire caused by an electrical cord is a Class C fire. Use a CO2 fire extinguisher to put out a Class C fire instead of the water extinguisher. Water can make the fire worse.

If You Can’t Get Out, Stay Low, and Cover Your Face

If you can’t get out of your house, stay low and cover your face. Smoke inhalation is one of the leading causes of death in fires.

Remember to use the proper exit plan when exiting a structure: never use an elevator during a fire.

Never Go Back into a Burning Building

Once you get out, never go back into a burning building to get your belongings because it’s not worth the risk. Keep in mind that your life is more valuable than material things.

Document the Damage

After a fire, it’s important to document the damage. Take pictures and keep a list of all the damaged items in the fire. This will help with insurance claims.

Call a Fire Restoration Company

If a fire damages your home, call professionals. They can help you clean up the mess and restore whatever is left to get your home back to normal. Click here to know more about how it works.

Call Your Insurance Company

If you have insurance, make sure to call your insurance company as soon as possible. They will help you through the claims process and provide you with temporary housing if necessary.

Conclusion

A fire in your house can be a devastating event. However, by following these tips, you can help reduce the chances of a fire. If it occurs, follow the proper evacuation procedures and call 911. Remember to document the damage and call your insurance company.

On top of these, call a restoration company, such as PuroClean, to help with the aftermath. They can help you get your home back to its pre-fire state. PuroClean is one of the leading property restoration companies across the country. They also provide water damage services, so you can call them if you need water damage Bridgewater professionals.