NFPA reports top three main hazards for home electrical fires
1. The first is degradation over time
– Degradation is just a natural consequence of being in use for a long time
– For homeowners, upgrade or have their system inspected
2. The Second issue is there is more electrical load today
– The load today is more than what those electrical systems were designed to originally handle just a few decades ago
Most homes were not wired to use so much wattage. Homeowners are using more products that require a high electrical load including:
- Fridge with freezer
- Double Ovens
- Microwave
- Coffee Maker
- Toaster Oven/Broiler
- Blender
- Can opener
- Deep fryer
- Extra lighting
- Electric fry pan, griddles, etc.
3. The third issue is that homeowners have involved themselves in the wiring systems and have not followed code practices
– Many times these may be done by unskilled people leaving installations that did not meet the National Electric Code
Electricity is the most powerful source inside the home. When we take it for granted, it’s dangerous!
