Electrical Fire Safety Tips

Be prepared to act fast. Visualize your plan of response in a fire, so you can move quickly if one happens. Take into account the nearest multipurpose fire extinguisher and how to use it, the nearest emergency exit or fire escape, and your company’s escape plan. Also note company procedures for notifying fire fighters and other emergency personnel.

Call for help first. Even if a fire seems small and nonthreatening, call for help before you try to extinguish it yourself. When in doubt, get out and take others with you.

If electrical equipment is involved, unplug it if you can do so safely, or turn off power at the main switch.

Don’t throw water on an electrical fire. Because water conducts electricity, throwing water on an electrical fire can cause the fire to get larger. It can also cause a shock hazard, as the electricity can travel up the stream of water to you. Use a multipurpose fire extinguisher instead.

If someone is burned, call 911. If you are sure the victim is safely away from the fire and/or no longer in contact with electricity, give first aid as follows:

• Cool minor burns with cold, running water.

• Don’t touch the burn, break blisters, or remove burned clothing.

• Cover minor burns with a sterile bandage.

• If burns are severe, wrap the victim in a clean sheet and cover with a blanket until medical help arrives.

• Always seek medical help for burns. With electrical burns, damage may not be immediately apparent.