Electrical Hazards

Although modern code requirements have made home electrical systems safer then ever, electricity can still pose a threat to you and your loved ones. In order to reduce the risk of electrical fires, or injuries related to other electrical hazards, it is important that you know how and when electricity can be dangerous. Check out the tips and information below regarding how to best avoid electrical fires and hazards!

Electrical Fire Facts

• In 2015-2019 electrical distribution or lighting equipment, such as wiring, lighting, cords, and plugs, was involved in an estimated average of roughly 32,620 reported home structure fires per year. These incidents caused an average of 430 civilian deaths, 1,070 civilian injuries, and $1.3 billion in direct property damage annually.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment ranked first in direct property damage, and third among the major fire causes in the number of home fires, home fire deaths and home fire injuries.
• Wiring and related equipment accounted for 6 percent of all home fires and 11 percent of all home fire deaths.
• Cords or plugs were involved in only one percent of home fires but seven percent of the deaths. Extension cords dominated the cord or plug category.