In the event of an electrical emergency, quick thinking and informed actions are crucial. Understanding the nuances of electrical fires is key to ensuring safety and minimising damage.
Recognising the distinct electrical fire smell can also be a lifesaver. Such awareness can alert you before the situation escalates with enough time to contact a 24/7 electrician for help.
This article delves into three ways to handle an electrical fire and how to stop it, and it discusses the critical timeframe in which these fires can ignite.
3 Ways to Deal With an Electrical Fire
The 3 main ways to deal with an electrical fire are to cut the power, use the correct fire extinguisher, and evacuate and call emergency services. Let’s take a closer look at each one below:
Turn off the Power Source
The first critical step in managing an electrical fire is to cut off the power source immediately. This can typically be done by switching off the main power at your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box.
Isolating the power reduces the chances of the fire spreading or reigniting, making the area safer.
Use the Correct Fire Extinguisher
It’s essential to use the right type of fire extinguisher for an electrical fire. This would be a Class E fire extinguisher in Australia, specifically designed for electrical fires.
These extinguishers contain non-conductive chemicals suitable for putting out fires caused by electrical equipment without the risk of electric shock or further damage.
Evacuate and Call Emergency Services
If the fire is beyond your control or you are uncertain about your safety, evacuate the area immediately. Once you are in a safe location, call emergency services for assistance.
Remember, no property is worth more than your personal safety. Professional firefighters have the right equipment and training to deal with electrical fires effectively and safely.
How Do You Stop an Electrical Fire?
You stop an electrical fire by first ensuring that the electricity supply to the affected area, such as a wet electrical outlet, is turned off at the mains. This crucial step helps prevent the fire from being fuelled further by the electrical source.
Using a CO2 or dry powder fire extinguisher is also important, as these are suitable for electrical fires. A fire blanket can also be used to smother the flames when the fire is small and contained.
How Long Does It Take for an Electrical Fire to Start?
It takes about 3 minutes to 1 hour for an electrical fire to start under typical conditions. This time frame is influenced by factors like the electrical fault’s intensity, the wiring’s condition, and the presence of combustible materials nearby.
The gap in time is due to the diverse nature of electrical systems and the different rates at which they can overheat and cause ignition.
Can You Smell an Electrical Fire Before It Starts?
Yes, you can smell an electrical fire before it starts. Electrical fire is often characterised by a distinctive acrid odour. This smell is typically caused by overheating electrical components or insulation, which emit a burning scent as they deteriorate.
Being alert to such unusual odours in your home or workplace can be a crucial early warning sign of potential electrical hazards.
