Electrical faults are the number one cause of house fires in India, which means a little attention to your wiring and appliances goes a long way. None of these ten tips needs an expert or much money. They just need doing.
1. Stop overloading sockets
Running several high-power appliances from one socket or extension board is the classic cause of an overheated circuit. Spread the load.
2. Use ISI-marked fittings
Cheap, unbranded switches, wires and adaptors fail early and overheat. Stick to ISI-marked products throughout.
3. Get old wiring inspected
Wiring in older homes was never rated for today’s ACs and geysers. Have a licensed electrician check it.
4. Service heavy appliances
ACs, geysers, fridges and inverters should be serviced on schedule. A hospital study even found AC units to be a leading ignition source.
5. Replace damaged cords
Frayed or cracked cords are a direct fire risk. Replace them rather than taping them up.
6. Do not ignore warning signs
Burning smells, warm switches, flickering lights and frequent tripping are early warnings. Act on them. Our guide on short circuits explains why.
7. Unplug when not in use
Switch off and unplug appliances overnight and when you travel.
8. Keep water away from electricals
Keep sockets and boards away from wet areas, and never handle switches with wet hands.
9. Install MCBs and proper earthing
Good MCBs and earthing cut power before a fault becomes a fire. Have them checked.
10. Add automatic protection at the panel
Because electrical fires often start unattended at the switchboard, mount an automatic fire extinguisher ball nearby. It puts out a panel fire on its own in 3 to 10 seconds. See the FireXross 1.5 Kg ball.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the leading cause of electrical fires at home?
Overloaded circuits and faulty or old wiring, which together account for most electrical fires in India.
How can I tell if my home has an electrical fire risk?
Watch for warm or discoloured switches, burning smells, flickering lights and breakers that trip often.
Can an extinguisher ball stop an electrical fire?
Yes. FireXross balls work on electrical fires and activate on contact with flame, which suits unattended switchboard fires well.
