What Are The Early Warning Signs of an Electrical Fire?

Here in the UK, electrical fires are one of the most common causes of both domestic and commercial blazes.

Electrical fires can be devastating, putting people’s lives in serious danger and risking financial ruin due to the extensive damage that can be done to your building and assets. For this reason, spotting the early warning signs of a small electrical fire can be crucial in preventing it from turning into a catastrophic event. 

This month at Fire Safety Equipment, we’re going to highlight a handful of the red flags to stay vigilant for, along with some steps you can take if you spot them.

1. Frequent Electrical Circuit Breaker Trips

The primary function of a circuit breaker is to halt the flow of electricity when an overload is detected. If you notice your circuit breaker tripping regularly, it could be an indication of a potential electrical fault. This shouldn’t be ignored, and it’s advised to consult an electrician as soon as possible.

2. Overheated Outlets or Switches

Warm outlets or switches might hint at an internal problem. When electrical components are working correctly, they should never be hot to the touch. If you detect any warmth or worse, a burning smell from the outlets, it’s crucial to address this immediately.

3. Discoloured Wall Outlets

Dark, brownish or discoloured spots around your wall outlets can be a tell-tale sign of electrical issues behind the walls. This might be due to sparking or small fires that extinguished on their own. Ensure to get this inspected without delay.

4. Flickering or Dimming Lights

If you witness lights dimming or flickering regularly, it may not just be a bulb nearing its end. It can be a result of loose or faulty wiring and should be examined by a professional.

5. Buzzing Sounds

While electricity in itself is silent, a buzzing sound from an outlet, switch or appliance can signify a malfunction. Faulty wiring or a defective device can cause this buzz, which can escalate to a fire if not checked.

6. Unusual Smells

Can you smell burning rubber or plastic within your premises? This smell can often precede a fire where an electrical issue at the outlet, switch or in the appliance itself is taking place. You should turn off the power immediately and have a professional take a look.

7. Sparking

We’ve spoken a lot about signs you can look out for that would indicate a deeper problem with your electrical appliances and outlets, but none are more clear than sparks. You should never be able to see electrical sparks, because these can easily ignite flammable materials nearby. If you see sparks, always call in an electrician.

8. Old or Frayed Wiring

If you’re in an older building where you know the wiring hasn’t been addressed for many years – or if you can see the wiring and notice that it’s visibly frayed and worn – then your premises are at greater risk of an electrical fire. In some cases, your building may not be suitable for the type of electrical loads you have, which is why you should have an inspection carried out so that a professional can recommend the right course of action. This could mean updating part or all of your wiring within your building to meet the required safety standards.

Steps to Take on Identifying Warning Signs:

• Safety first: Where you notice any of the signs above, immediately turn off the main power and evacuate the building until the issue has been addressed.

• Call in the professionals: Get a certified electrician to inspect your building and remedy any issues. You should schedule regular reviews and PAT testing alongside this.
• Purchase fire extinguishers: You can help extinguish small electrical fires safely with CO2 extinguishers or powder fire extinguishers for your building.
• Stay informed: Make sure you’re up to date with the latest fire safety guideance, allowing you to put in place the right equipment and detection systems in line with the risks in your building.

Electrical fires can be easily prevented if you stay vigilant for the signs and remain on top of fire safety in general for your business. Whether it’s getting the right fire extinguisher type to meet the threats in your building or simply arranging regular electrical inspections, it all goes a long way towards protecting lives and reducing the likelihood that your business will be decimated by an electrical fire.

Order your essential fire safety equipment with us online today and get fast, free delivery in the UK. We have everything you need in one handy place, including extinguishers, fire safety signage and workplace safety equipment.