An appliance catching fire is one of the last things anyone wants to imagine, but it can happen suddenly in any home. Knowing the right way to respond, and the wrong moves to avoid, can mean the difference between a quick save and a serious emergency.
Key Points:
- Never use water on an electrical fire
- A Class C fire extinguisher or baking soda can safely put out small appliance fires
- Evacuate immediately if a fire grows beyond your control
- Regular inspections and updated wiring help prevent fires before they start
What Not To Do
Never attempt to extinguish an electrical fire with water. Water conducts electricity, which means it can either spread the current to other flammable surfaces or put you at risk of electrocution.
If a fire grows too large to contain safely, don’t try to fight it. Close the door to the room to slow its spread, get everyone out of the building immediately, and call 911 once you’re safely outside.
Correct Ways to Put Out an Electrical Fire
If a small appliance fire is contained, unplug it if you can do so safely, then use one of the following methods. A multipurpose fire extinguisher labeled with a C is built to handle Class C fires, which the Federal Emergency Management Agency identifies as fires involving energized electrical equipment like appliances, motors, and wiring. The acronym PASS makes it easy to remember how to use one:
- P – Pull the pin
- A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire from a safe distance
- S – Squeeze the lever to release the extinguishing agent
- S – Sweep the nozzle side to side until the fire is out, staying alert in case it reignites
It’s worth keeping a fire extinguisher on each floor of your home and checking them regularly for expiration. If you don’t have one handy, a small appliance fire like a toaster can often be smothered with baking soda, or with a heavy blanket laid fully over the flames rather than thrown, since a full covering is what cuts off the fire’s oxygen.
How to Avoid Electrical Fires
Appliances don’t last forever, and damaged or melted cords are one of the most common causes of electrical fires. Checking cords regularly and unplugging appliances when they’re not in use, even ones people assume are safe to leave plugged in, goes a long way toward preventing overheating.
Upgrading an older home’s wiring to modern materials like copper significantly reduces fire risk and can even lower insurance costs. If you’re relying on extension cords for anything beyond temporary use, that’s a sign it’s time for a permanent solution. Our electrical repair services team can assess your home’s wiring and recommend safe, lasting upgrades.
When to Call a Professional
Not every warning sign is as dramatic as a fire. Outlets that feel warm, breakers that trip repeatedly, or lights that flicker when multiple devices are running are all signals that your electrical system needs attention before a bigger problem develops. A licensed residential electrician can identify these issues early, often before they become safety hazards.
Protecting Your Home Year-Round
Fire prevention isn’t a one-time task. Scheduling regular electrical safety inspections and considering a Home Protection Plan gives you ongoing peace of mind rather than waiting for a warning sign to act.
If it’s been a while since your home’s wiring was checked, contact our team today to schedule an inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use water to put out an electrical fire?
No. Water conducts electricity and can spread the fire or cause electrocution.
What type of fire extinguisher do I need for an electrical fire?
A multipurpose extinguisher labeled with a C, rated for Class C electrical fires.
Can baking soda really put out a fire?
Yes, for small appliance fires. Its sodium bicarbonate content is the same agent found in Class C extinguishers.
What are common causes of electrical fires at home?
Damaged cords, overloaded circuits, and long-term use of extension cords are among the most common causes.
How often should I have my home’s wiring inspected?
An annual electrical safety inspection is a good baseline, especially for older homes.