How to prevent and put out electrical fires

Electricity itself does not burn but it can be the cause of a fire. Electrical fires (also known as Class E fires) are a risk to all premises that use electricity. They occur when live electrical equipment is involved in a fire and can be uniquely devastating for several reasons. The source of the fire can be difficult to identify, they can spread rapidly, and there is the additional risk of electrocution, especially if the correct fire extinguisher for electrical fires isn’t used.

Here, we outline vital information about electrical fire safety, from causes to precautions to how to put out electrical fires.

What are the main causes of electrical fires?

While causes of electrical fires vary depending on the equipment and environment, there are some common factors that need to be considered.

1. Improper use of electrical equipment
   

   Looking at the causes of electrical fires, UK statistics show that 34% of the almost 26,000 accidental dwelling fires in the year ending March 2020 were caused by ‘misuse of equipment or appliances’. For example, overloading extension cords with too many devices, causing them to overheat and start a fire. 

2.  Faulty wiring
   

   The second largest cause category, resulting in 15% of all accidental dwelling fires, was ‘faulty appliances and leads’. One of the leading causes of electrical fires is damaged or outdated electrical wiring, improper installation, or defective materials, which can lead to overheating and sparks, igniting a fire. 

How to prevent electrical fires

Electrical fire safety in the workplace, or any commercial building, begins with a fire risk assessment. From construction sites to hospitality venues, the responsible person of a premises should ensure all electrical appliances have been tested within the last 12 months to minimise the risk of a fire. All electrical devices have the potential to cause a fire, from toasters in holiday homes, to electrical panels in offices, to heaters and light fixtures in bars and restaurants. To prioritise electrical fire safety, it’s also important to only hire licensed electricians for installations and repairs. On top of this, a compliant fire escape plan should be in place, with fire alarms, signs, and other necessary fire safety equipment available. All staff should also know what fire extinguisher for electrical fires to use in the event of an emergency – these must not contain a liquid agent and should be within easy reach of all building users.

What fire extinguisher is used for electrical fires?

Electrical fires can become much more dangerous if tackled incorrectly. For example, using foam, water, and wet chemical fire extinguishers for electrical fires can put the user of the unit at significant risk. This is because water is a conductor and will spread the current across a greater area if used. So what type of fire extinguisher is used for electrical fires? When it comes to electrical safety, fire extinguisher units that do not rely on a liquid agent are vital. There are only two types of fire extinguisher that can safely suffocate the flames of an electrical fire: CO2 fire extinguishers (because the gas is non-conductive) and dry powder fire extinguishers (only suitable for outdoor applications and where electrical equipment is below 1000v). Some water-based fire extinguishers have passed a test so that they are safe for ‘inadvertent’ use on an electrical fire, but there is still a risk and we do not recommend that they are used or specified for electrical hazards.

How to put out electrical fires

Every second counts in the event of an emergency, which is why fire and electrical safety plans are so important. If an electrical fire breaks out, the first step to take is to alert others in the premises, who should follow the evacuation plan to reach a designated fire assembly point. If safe to do so, power supplies should be cut off to reduce the risk of the fire spreading, and electrocution. You should never use water to put out an electrical fire – putting out the fire can only be done using specific fire extinguishers for electrical fires, and the unit should be aimed at the base of the fire, not directly at the flames. However, if a fire becomes too large or spreads quickly, it’s crucial that the area is fully evacuated immediately and left to trained firefighters. 

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