Crime & Safety

Homeowners Can Lower Risk Of Electrical Fires

Oscillating fan, dehumidifier unit caused fires in town this month.

Within the past month, the Lynnfield Fire Department responded to two separate house fires in town, both of which were caused by electric home devices.

On May 31, a home on Chestnut Street was seriously damaged when a freestanding oscillating fan malfunctioned, triggering the blaze. Then, a Saturday June 4 fire on Norris Road was apparently set by a dehumidifier unit.

At the time, Fire Chief Thomas Bogart reminded residents to be sure their smoke detectors were functioning, noting that these had helped the family on Norris Road escape in a safe and timely fashion.

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Lynnfield Patch also checked in with the Chief about safety with electronic devices in the home, since these two fires in town had somewhat similar origins.

According to Chief Bogart, electrical fires are common – and with that in mind he provided some information on how people can lower the fire danger in their own home.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that 485 Americans die in electrical fires each year and another 2,305 are injured. Causes can range from appliance defects and electrical failures to misuse of electrical appliances, improper wiring, and overloaded circuits.

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The federal agency notes that electrical fires most commonly occur in electric stoves and ovens, dryers, central heating units, televisions, radios and record players.

To improve safety, people are advised to routinely check their appliances and wiring, and to be especially sure to replace frayed or damaged appliance cords. Appliances should also be kept away from wet surfaces, especially in the bathroom and kitchen – and it's equally important to keep them away from children and flammable materials such as clothing and curtains.

Another important tip is to avoid overloading extension cords and to never try to force a three-prong electrical plug into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.

Separate information from the State Fire Marshal's Office reminds homeowners that some danger signs in their electric appliances include arcs, sparks and short circuits, as well as a sizzling or buzzing sound, and odors, such as a vague burning smell.

The fire marshal's office also advises people to quickly call an electrician if their lights tend to dim or flicker, or if they are giving out too quickly or causing shocks. Loose plugs, overheated cords and unusually warm or faulty outlets and switches may also be signs of a potentially dangerous electrical problem.

 

 


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