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How to Put Out an Electrical Fire

Electricity has proved to be a vital part of our daily lives. During the winter, you can use appliances powered by electricity to heat up the house as well as to cool it during summer. Electricity also ensures that our homes are well lit. However, with its frequent usage, myriads of people underestimate the hazards it can cause, for instance, fire. If you are ever faced with an electrical fire problem, it's crucial to know the proper way to extinguish it. Electrical fire is not just any ordinary fire. You must take cautionary measures when extinguishing it to make sure you are safe. Here's what you need to do to put out a fire caused by electricity:

  1. Unplugging any devices that may be causing the fire should be the first step toward putting out a fire caused by electricity. If you can find the device that is causing the fire, unplug the cord safely.
  2. Never use water to put out the fire. Water is naturally a good conductor of electricity. Using it may cause further damage to the electrical system or get you electrocuted. Additionally, when water conducts electricity, it may aid the spreading of fire across the room, therefore, burning any flammable materials.
  3. If the fire is small, you may smother sodium bicarbonate on it to put it out. However, you should ensure that the particular fire is manageable for your safety.
  4. Removing the source of oxygen. You can also put out a small electrical fire by eliminating the oxygen source. Use a heavy blanket or clothing to cover the source of the fire.
  5. Using a fire extinguisher to put out the flames. Foam and liquid extinguishers are the best to use because fires caused by electricity are categorized as Class C fires; therefore, appropriate extinguishers should be used. Be sure to aim at the base of the flames and not any objects around them.
  6. Call a professional. If you cannot put out the fire with the appropriate extinguishers, consider calling a professional crew, and wait for them to arrive before you do anything else. Electrical fires are very dangerous; therefore, they should be handled cautiously.

Remember, it is critical to take caution when dealing with a fire caused by electricity. If you cannot be able to put out the flames, call for help from the professionals. Fire is never a fun experience considering the damage to the room's paint and the room in general, so ensure to take all the necessary precautions before it happens.