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Many electrical fires in homes are caused by incorrectly installed wiring, overloaded circuits and extension cords.
In a typical year, home-electrical problems account for 26,100 fires and $1 billion in property losses. Some other leading causes of electrical fires include faulty outlets, light fixtures and lamps/light bulbs. Many avoidable electrical fires can be traced to misuse of electric cords, such as overloading circuits, poor maintenance, and running the cords under rugs or in high traffic areas.
In Germany we have a unique situation when dealing with electrical equipment. Some appliances require the use of a transformer to change the voltage from 220 volt to 110 volt. If you do plug your appliance into a wall outlet, ensure that your item is dual voltage, if not, you could permanently disable your appliance.
Electrical Safety Precautions:
- Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
- Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords immediately.
- Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
- Buy electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory. (UL, etc.)
- Keep clothes curtains, and other potentially combustible items at least three feet from all heaters.
- Don’t allow children to play with or around electrical appliances like space heaters, irons and hair dryers.
- Use safety closures to “child-proof” electrical outlets.
- Use electrical extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets.
- Ensure your appliance is rated for your transformer. Do not overload transformers.
- Finally, having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with your family.
Fore more information, call the KMC Fire Prevention office at 480-5940, or call the Army Fire Prevention at 493-4500. In case of emergency dial 112.
