Electrical Fire Safety - The City of Red Deer

Heat energy from electric sparks, overloaded circuits, faulty electric appliances and incorrectly installed wiring can all lead to fires with dangerous consequences. Electrical fires rank fifth in the list of major home fires in Alberta.

Electrical Fire Safety Tips

Do not substitute a 30 ampere fuse for a 15 ampere fuse as the wire carrying the electricity may not be big enough.
Do not tamper with fuses (e.g. putting a penny behind the fuse) as this is a potential fire hazard.
Do not overload circuits as this may cause the wires to heat and ignite insulation or other combustibles.
Replace or repair electrical appliances that over heat, spark, short out, smoke or have cracked or frayed cords.
Wiring installations should always be made by a licensed electrician or other qualified person.
Always use lights bulbs with the recommended wattage for your lamp and ceiling fixtures.
All electric appliances should have the label of a testing laboratory.
Never break off the third prong on a plug.
Cords should not be hung on nails, run over or wrapped around objects, knotted or twisted. This may break the wire or insulation. Short circuits are usually caused by bare wires touching, due to breakdown of insulation.
Pull the plug not the cord. Pulling the cord could break a wire, causing a short circuit.
Plug your microwave or any other large appliances into an outlet that is not shared with other appliances.
Ensure switch plates, outlets or cords are not warm to the touch.

Be aware of the odour of burning plastic or wire.

Do not use extension cords permanent wiring. They may not be able to carry the load.

Ensure lamps are free from contact with flammable material.