Top Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires at Home and Work
24th December 2025 | Written By: Vinod Pottayil | Read Time: 3min | Last Updated: 24th December 2025
India registered 112 fire incidents in the second half of 2023, according to the latest data available. These fires resulted in 131 mortalities and 164 injuries from 40 residential buildings and 72 commercial complexes. Electrical fires are avertable, provided you take the following precautions:
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Install Smoke Detectors/Alarms
A majority of residential and commercial properties in India don’t have smoke detectors. There are several reasons – lack of statutory requirements, design scope limitation, low priority of safety, etc.
However, smoke alarms can curtail the spread of fire. They can facilitate timely, safe evacuation and save lives.
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Deploy Circuit Breakers and Safety Switches
58% of electrical fires from the second half of 2023 were due to short circuits. Circuit breakers and safety switches have an in-built, automatic power supply cut-off. The moment it detects an electrical fault or overload, they get activated.
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Avoid Electrical Overload
This is a severe fire hazard. Electrical equipment and sockets are designed to handle a specific amount of electrical load. If you make the equipment do heavier jobs than it should or plug multiple devices in a single outlet, it may result in electrical overload.
Warm switches, burning smell, flickering lights and circuit breaker tripping are some common warning signs of electrical overload.
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Use High-Quality Ducts and Wires
49% of electrical fires from the second half of 2023 started and spread through electrical ducts. Hence, you must install authorised or superior-grade wires and ducts across your home or office. You can also consider flame-retardant wires and cables.
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Keep Combustibles Away
Inflammable materials such as paper, chemicals (powder or liquid forms), fabrics and sawdust are potential fire hazards. They can ignite fire even with the tiniest electrical spark. That’s why it is also highly advisable to remove any electrical cords from under the rugs or behind the curtains.
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Replace or Repair Faulty Appliances
Appliances that are malfunctioning or have exceeded their lifespan are a huge safety risk. They cannot only consume more power, but also cause fires. Repair or replace the appliances for faults or if they are outdated
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Use Light Bulbs with the Right Wattage
A high-wattage bulb, unless recommended, can get overheated. It can become brittle, explode and become a fire starter. Light bulbs should be installed according to the correct wattage in homes and offices.
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Incorrect Use of Extension Cords
Overheating can happen in extension cords if it is overloaded with too many devices or connected to devices with wattage higher than the extension cord can handle. Avoid plugging appliances such as microwaves, heaters, refrigerators, toasters and air conditioners in extension cords.
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Address Electrical Issues Promptly
Check all the wires, cables, ducts, switches and electrical appliances for any faults or damage at regular intervals. Ensure repair or replacement as necessary.
Electrical problems such as circuit tripping, electrical shocks, burning odour, spark, malfunctioning of switches/wires/devices and dimming or flickering lights need immediate attention. Call a professional electrician to identify the problem and take preventive steps.
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Maintain Air Circulation for Appliances
Electrical equipment needs air circulation to prevent overheating. Place the electrical appliances such that there is ample space for air circulation. Avoid keeping them in enclosed cabinets.
Conclusion
Most electrical fires are avoidable with the necessary and timely precautions. It is advisable to invest in high-quality products and reputed brands for your electrical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :
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Q1. How dangerous are electrical fires?
Electrical fires can start from a tiny spark and spread like a wildfire. They can lead to loss of life and property.
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Q2. What are the causes of electrical fires?
Electrical fires can erupt due to any electrical malfunction. A few common causes are:
- Faulty or low-quality wires and ducts
- Ignoring electrical issues as soon as they arise
- Electrical overload
- Overheating of light bulbs and appliances
- Overheating or overloading of extension cords
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Q3. Is early detection and intervention of electrical fires possible?
You can take a few steps for early detection and curb the breakout:
- Install smoke detectors/alarms
- Routine inspection and maintenance of electrical wires, ducts, accessories and appliances.
- Prompt repairs and replacements for faults.
- Disconnecting the main power supply.
- Using fire extinguishers.
- Avoid water sprinkles to prevent electrocution.
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Q4. Can light bulbs cause electrical fires?
Poor-quality bulbs or the ones with incorrect wattage can get overheated quickly. They can cause explosions and fire.
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Q5. Are circuit breakers helpful in preventing electrical fires?
Circuit breakers are designed to interrupt the current flow and automatically cut off electrical power as soon as they detect overload or short circuit. It can safeguard electrical equipment and prevent fire breakout.
