Electrical Fire Safety

• 
  Do not overload outlets.
• Plug heat generating appliances directly into an outlet, not into a power strip or extension cord.
• Don't put electrical cords underneath rugs or pinched behind furniture
• Charge laptops and phones only on hard surfaces, not on beds or sofas.
• Have a licensed electrician review your home’s electrical system every ten years. Small upgrades and safety checks can prevent larger problems.
• Consider installing tamper resistant (TR) outlets in homes with small children.

For more information about protecting your home from electrical fires:

• Electrical Fire Safety - English
• Electrical Fire Safety - Spanish

Call the fire department immediately if you have any of these warning signs:

• Arcs, sparks or short circuits;
• Sizzling or buzzing sound;
• Odors, vague smell of something burning.

Firefighters can use thermal imaging technology to see excessive heat inside the walls.

Call a professional electrician soon if you have any of these warning signs:

• Frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers;
• Dim or flickering lights, bulbs that wear out too fast;
• Overheated plugs, cords or switches;
• Shock or mild tingle – more than normal static electricity;
• Loose plugs; or
• Unusually warm or faulty outlets or switches.