Electricity….It powers our air conditioners in the summer, is what keeps the lights on, allows us to cook our food, and allows us to enjoy watching television in our homes. Unfortunately, electrical fires are one of the leading causes of house fires and injuries in the United States.
Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 310 Americans each year and injure 1,100 more. Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures, but many more are caused by incorrectly installed wiring and overloaded circuits and extension cords.
During a typical year, home electrical problems account for 28,600 fires and $1.1 billion in property losses. 53% of residential electrical fires involve electrical wiring. The bedroom is the leading area of fire origin for residential building electrical fires. However, electrical fires that begin in the living room/family room/den areas result in the most deaths.
Having a working smoke alarm dramatically increases your chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently in your home.
For more information, please access our Knowledge Center for a printable PDF for electrical fires and other topics.
