Preventing electrical fires

Electrical safety tips

Use the rule: one outlet, one plug. If you have any questions, speak with a certified electrician.

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  Electrical cord and plugs

  Inspect cords and plugs

  Inspecting electrical cords and plugs regularly helps reduce the risk of electrical fires.

  • Discard all cords and plugs that are worn or frayed
  • Never break off the third prong on a plug to plug it into a two-pronged outlet
  • Replace two-pronged outlets with three-pronged outlets

  How to plug and unplug cords

  When plugging in or unplugging items:

  • Hold a plug securely to pull it from the wall. Pulling on the cord can wear the cord out and increase the risk of a short circuit, an electrical shock, or a fire.
  • Use multi-outlet extenders, power bars, and surge protectors sparingly. Otherwise you can risk overloading a single circuit.
  • Use extension cords temporarily. If you need the extra length more often, speak to a certified electrician to install additional electrical outlets.
  • Avoid running electrical cords beneath carpets.
  • Keep electrical cords away from sources of heat and water.

   Warning: When young children are present, cover unused outlets with safety plugs or install outlets with spring-latch covers.

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  Electrical appliance safety

  • Buy appliances approved by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
  • Follow manufacturer instructions.
  • Disconnect small appliances (toasters, toaster ovens, coffee makers, etc.) before cleaning them.
  • Have defective appliances checked by a professional.
  • Disconnect small appliances when not in use, for instance when you are on vacation.
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  Electrical wiring

  Do you have inadequate electrical wiring?

  Older homes and apartments can have inadequate wiring. This can be a fire hazard and an electrical hazard. If your home matches any of the statements below, contact a certified electrician to inspect your electrical system.

  Examples of inadequate electrical wiring:

  • You unplug one appliance before plugging in another appliance, otherwise you may trip a circuit breaker or blow a fuse.
  • You run multiple extension cords, or plug multiple cords into a single outlet because you don't have enough outlets.
  • Your furniture arrangement options are limited if you need to be close to electrical outlets.
  • Your small appliances, such as toasters or irons, are slow to heat.
  • You notice that the lights dim when you use certain appliances.
  • You enter rooms and stairways in darkness because there are not enough three- or four-way light switches.