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Electrical Fire Safety

The Bright Idea is Fire Safety

Electrical fire safety is important to keep your home and family safe. Things like bad wiring, overloaded outlets, or broken electrical equipment can cause fires. These fires can spread fast and do a lot of damage, but many can be stopped with simple safety steps. Knowing the risks and keeping your electrical system in good shape can help prevent fires and make your home safer.

Click on the images below to learn a few helpful tips to avoid an electrical fire.

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Extension cords are for temporary use only. Show More Info

Extension Cords

Long-term use can cause overheating, damage, or fire.

Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage. Show More Info

Light Bulbs

Higher-watt bulbs can overheat fixtures and ignite nearby materials.

Never plug a power strip into another power strip. Show More Info

Power Strips

Daisy-chaining can overload circuits and start a fire.

Major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Show More Info

Major Appliances

Their high power demand can overheat extension cords or power strips.

Keep lamps and light fixtures away from flammable items. Show More Info

Light Fixtures

Bulbs generate heat that can ignite nearby flammable materials.

Unplug small appliances when not in use. Show More Info

Small Appliances

Leaving them plugged in can cause overheating or accidental activation.









Electrical Fire Safety Tips 

  • Avoid pinching cords between walls and furniture.
  • Do not run electrical cords under carpets or across doorways.
  • Avoid electrical overload.
  • Consider having an electrician install additional wall outlets where you need them and add a breaker if needed.
  • Electrical work should be done by a qualified professional.




Resources

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has an electrical fire safety brochure available to order in English and Spanish. Russian, Chinese-Simplified, and Vietnamese can be requested as a printable download. 

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