Most homes are energized by electricity making them susceptible to electrical fires. While appliances make our lives more convenient, they are the usual causes of class E fires. Moreover, outdated wirings and faulty use of extension wires are other common causes of electrical fires. If your home is near industrial zones, that can be another fire hazard.

With more and more residential fires stemming from electrical causes, it is but imperative to have class e fire extinguishers in our homes. But aside from that we should know some basic things about electrical fires and how to contain them before proper authorities arrive.

Here are the first things that you should do at first notice of an electrical fire that has just started.

Cut Off the Current

If the fire has not yet reach the cord of your appliance and you can safely take a hold of it, you should unplug the device quickly. But if you think that it is not safe to do so, cut off the electricity by switching off the main switch. This way, you are preventing the fast spread of the fire.

Remove Adjacent Flammable Materials

If you have curtains hanging near the source of fire or flammable liquids, put them away. They may catch fire and it may be more difficult for you to contain the fire on your own.

Add Soda and Avoid Water

Don’t make the mistake of pouring water to an electrical fire. Remember that water is a good conductor of electricity. You can get electrocuted. Moreover, you can just be spreading the fire. Instead, use baking soda if the fire is still small. A heavy blanket can also be used to smother the fire while it has not become big yet. By doing so, you are removing the oxygen source.

Get Ready With Your Extinguisher

If you have a set of fire extinguishers in your home, make sure to pick up the class E fire extinguisher. If you pick up the wrong type, it may ether be ineffective or may get things worse.

Call Authorities

If you have someone with you, ask him to call 911 of the fire department. Tell other occupants of your home to get out. If the fire is getting out of control, you should get out the soonest. Lock the door behind you so that oxygen source will be limited. Wait for the fire fighters and do not try to reenter until the fire has been contained.…