7 Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires | Security Alarm 7 Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires | Security Alarm
SERVING CENTRAL & SOUTHERN ILLINOIS 618-548-5768 | PAY ONLINE

7 Tips for Preventing Electrical Fires Posted on November 10, 2016 by

residential-house-on-fireAccording to the U.S. Fire Administration, in 2014, electrical fires accounted for 6.3 percent of all residential house fires (nearly 24,000 fires), 11 percent of the fires where someone died, and 7 percent of the fires where someone was injured.

Your home and family could easily become one of these statistics, and there are probably fire hazards in your home that you haven’t even considered. If you want to avoid having an electrical house fire, keep these seven tips in mind.

Our 7 Tips for Mitigating Electrical Fire Risks

1. Fix or replace damaged electrical cords.

When electrical cords begin to get nicks or cracks in the covering around the wires, then it is time to replace or repair them. Wires should NEVER show on an electrical cord and if they do it should be immediately addressed.

2. Avoid running extension cords under carpets.

It is not a good idea to run extension cords under carpet due to the fact that if it were to become nicked, cracked, or if wires were to become exposed, it would not be visible and could in turn quickly spark a fire. Sure someone could check under the rug every day but that is impractical and would be most likely forgotten. Best practice is to never run an extension cord under a flammable surface.

Electrical appliances pluged several adapter and charger.3. Add extra circuits or outlets to avoid combining multiple extension cords.

Extension cords are necessary at times, but it is not a good practice to have extension cords everywhere. A that point you may want to consider having more outlets added to your home for safety purposes and for ease of life.

4. In homes with small children, make sure your home has tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles.

Tamper – resistant receptacles are outlets that do not allow anything but a two prong plug to be inserted into them. This keeps foreign objects out of outlets. Things like pennies, keys, hair pins or anything else a child might try to insert.

5. Avoid overloading outlets.

It is important to remember that outlets CAN be overloaded. As a rule of thumb, remember that only ONE high wattage appliance should be plugged into each receptacle at a time. For example you would not want your dishwasher and your refrigerator to share the same receptacle. This could lead to and blown circuit, or worse a fire.

House fire concept and residential smoke disaster and burning destruction symbol as crumpled paper shaped as a family home residence as a 3D illustration on rustic wood.6. If you are having general “issues” or “quirks” with your electricity, call an electrician.

If your lights are flickering regularly, or if you if your outlets are warm to the touch, or if you having issues with breakers being thrown, call your electrician.

7. Use bulbs that match the lamp’s recommended wattage.

On every lamp, there is a wattage range or limit. This is not a suggestion, this is a hard and fast rule. Improper light bulbs placed in a socket can cause extreme heat and the possible melting of the light socket.

Want to learn more? Contact us online or at (618) 503-9095 for more fire safety tips or to get pricing for a monitored fire alarm system.

security-alarm-company

What Our Customers Are Saying

Excellent
4.9
Tyler did a great job reviewing our system and equipment and gave good options for improving our safety. We are in good hands!
I've been using their services for many years and have zero complaints. Everyone on their team is friendly and knowledgable. Ryan and Curtis were super professional and very helpful. I highly recommend them!
They reworked our code system. Did a wonderful job with everything. We are happy with their work every time we call them.
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
Once again the technician asked the right questions and sorted the problem out. I was unable to verify which zone each sensor was on, but he tracked it down and determined that the problem wasn't where we thought it was. He replaced the bad sensor and checked the others. And on the day I called. Thanks again, Security Alarm.
Quick replies and great attention to detail! Knowledgeable and friendly staff! Got us taken care of quickly!
Troy and Larry showed up in a timely manner. They were courteous, knowledgeable and professional. They fixed my problem in minimal time.
Response from the owner: Thank You Robert!
Have worked with SAC for over 15 years now and recently made a much needed upgrade. Each interaction that I have had with them, from the Office Staff to the Sales Staff to the Installers, was professional and positive. They worked around my customers during installation and was minimal interruption to my business. Plus - they are locally owned and operated. That means a lot to work with other business owners like us.
Jeff was here yesterday and found the problem with both cameras and even had to work in the rain to get them replaced and up and running. Thanks
Everything you could hope for. There was no attempt to sell us something we did not need. When a minor problem occurred they were there to take care of it. Great friendly people.
So pleased with the security system at UcamP Express RV Park, it has afforded me the freedom to do life, but yet be able to keep up-to-date on everything at the park. Customer service is top notch at Security Alarm of Salem, IL.
We have had Security Alarm for several years. Unfortunately, we have accidentally forgotten on occasion the alarm was set when we opened a door. Within seconds we would get a call making sure everything was okay.A couple times we had to have a technician come out to our house for a minor problem. The problems were resolved quickly and professional.We highly recommend Security Alarm for your home and business security.
Response from the owner: Thank you Vicki for taking the time to leave a review!
RYAN C, AND SECURITY ALARM DID AN AMAZING JOB START TO FINISH!! I OWN A BUSINESS AND CAN SAY SECURITY ALARM IS SECOND TO NONE IN SERVICE AND WORKMANSHIP!!
Thank you Watson for your prompt attention to our issue.
Our technician was the the Salem office. He was very nice, professional, and knowledgeable. I'm bad with names, but I think him name was Troy. I hope his boss acknowledges his good work.
Security Alarm is one of the best companies I have ever dealt with. As a landlord I have used so many companies for so many different things but not all give amazing service and give you a product beyond your expectations. It's always a pleasure doing business with you guys. Thank you for the wonderful service over the years.
We had a minor issue with our buzzer system for the entry door and Josh responded to our email within a few hours. An employee was at our office the next day and had the problem fixed within 30 minutes. We love the system they installed and would highly recommend Security Alarm. Mark Miller, Marion County Supervisor of Assessments
I cannot say enough good things about Security Alarm. Their office staff are very professional and helpful, wonderful sales staff who explain all options thoroughly and without bias. And their installers are outstanding, very knowledgeable and care about the customer, ensuring all questions are answered before they leave the job. I’m so glad we went with this company, and most of all, I feel our home is now safe and secure!!
Security Alarm responds quickly to our needs as soon as we call. Their technicians are highly skilled and the customer service team is exemplary.
The installation team did a wonderful job upgrading our system. They were friendly, efficient and very knowledgeable. We have been extremely happy with our Security Alarm service for many years now and look forward to many more.
I have been dealing with Lowitt Alarms Security Alarms since 1997, I an very satisfied with there service, I had a problem 4/5/24, I could not shut off the alarm, after calling Lowitt and following directions I was not able to shut off the alarm, I was told that the next appointment for repair would be tomorrow, I explained the we are seniors and please see what you can do, Linda, was able to made some adjustments and a repair person came to our home at 4Pm and put a new battery and radio, I highly recommend Lowitt Alarms to any one who is shopping for a Security System
The entire experience was great. Meeting with salesperson Ryan C. who didn’t try to sell us things we didn’t need. The installation crew who cleaned up as they went along and answerd all the questions about operating the system. Top notch all around.
Phenomenal service! I would highly recommend Security Alarm. Customer service is outstanding and prompt and not pushy. Overall, it was a wonderful experience working with them!
The technician was very professional and did our repairs in a timely manner.
The guys that set it up were first class!Your customer service is wonderful. I left my last security service because they had rude people in the wrong position!!
The guys were so nice and explained everything to me. They were here at the time I was told. Can't say enough good things about them!
TECH SUPPORT WAS EXTREMELY HELPFUL
The Security Alarm team was very nice, knowledgeable, and professional. Would highly recommend them!
This is a first rate operation. Anytime I have needed service their technicians arrive on time and get the work done promptly. Josh is an outstanding service tech!
Used Security Alarm Corp. for over 20 years. Service is great & I would not use any other company!
Tech solved my problem immediatelyThanks
Security Alarm has consistently shown professionalism, ethical business behavior, and exceptional customer support. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of residential or business monitoring services. They have given our family more peace of mind when it comes to home security, at a fraction of the cost of other major security companies.
They were both very nice. Explained what they were doing. They checked everything out and got me back up and running. Thank you Security Alarm for having such nice people working for you.
Response from the owner: Thank you Debbie for taking the time to leave a review!
Wonderfully helpful and informative. I’m confident we made a great choice. These guys really know their business!
Response from the owner: Thank you Carolyn for taking the time to leave a review!
Prompt service, they were here the next day and didn't leave until the problem was corrected. Even got a follow-up call the next day to make sure it was working.
Response from the owner: Christopher, so glad we were able to get the issue resolved! And thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
I have encountered 4 different employees from here. They have all been so nice. I am very impressed with how nice, respectful, and friendly they all have been.
Response from the owner: Thank you Cheryl for taking the time to leave us a review. We so appreciate it!
These guys are great!
very happy with the service, value and the instillation.
Response from the owner: Thank you William for taking the time to leave a review!
They did a fantastic job!! So glad I used this company!!! If you need a security system these are the people to call!!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much, Cathy! We are so thankful you chose as well!
Very good service and very friendly! 10/10 recommend
Very pleased with Security Alarm!This is our second time using them!They installed some additional security cameras at the KPJY Pinckneyville - Du Quoin Airport, located 6 miles south of Pinckneyville, Illinois. Courteous,knowledgable, and professional technicians! I highly recommend Security Alarm for your security and peace of mind!Stephen MossKPJY Airport Manager
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, Stephen. We all work as a team here to provide the very best customer care that we can! Thank you for choosing us yet again!
Troy and Larry gave expert service. Kind and considerate in their behavior.
Response from the owner: Thank You! Troy and Larry are great!
Security Alarm set up was great. On time and very professional. Took the time to walk me thru the system. System is working great. Feel safer already
Response from the owner: Thank You Tim for taking the time to leave a review!
The salesman, owner, and technicians were all very professional and polite. They got the job done in a timely manner, and made every effort to be as neat and clean as possible. I couldn't have asked for better service.
Response from the owner: Thank You, Justin!
The customer service is phenomenal. We had a unique situation, and Coy worked diligently to find a solution. He always called me first, rather than requiring me to chase him down for the answer. He answered questions thoroughly and went above and beyond the call of duty. Very, very happy customer.
Response from the owner: Wendy, thank you for taking the time to leave a review! We really appreciate the feedback, and look forward to serving you for many years to come!
We loved working with Security Alarm!
Response from the owner: Misty, thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
Excellent service for many years. Very satisfied with them! A++++
We’ll pleased with our protection & service with Security Alarm
We were having trouble with our 17 year old keypad and called for service. Within a day they were had replaced it at an extremely fair price
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave this review, Donald!
Wonderful service. Feel totally safe and secure with my coverage.
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, Kendra!
Security Alarm is professional, responsive and very reasonable!
Response from the owner: Thank you, Cindy. We appreciate your business!
Have never had issues with them. Always courteous on the phone
Response from the owner: Thank you, Neil!
Reliable service, fair price. Have been using them over 5 years.
Response from the owner: Thank you for your loyalty to us!
Always quick to help with any issues
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review, Mary!
I have confidence in Security Alarm and if I have an issue, they are always quick to resolve the problem.
Response from the owner: Thank you Vicki!
The technicians (Curtis and Jeff) arrived as scheduled, had the installation diagrams as discussed with Larry during the sales presentation and immediately began working on the planned installation. These gents came prepared with proper tooling, equipment and most impressive was a strong desire to satisfy the customer. The install was timely, they ensured their quality of work was satisfactory and cleaned up their work areas after the system functionality was verified. Great technicians!
Response from the owner: Gene, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review! We are so thankful for our techs and the amazing work and customer care that they give.
Great quick service !
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review!
This company has been in business for many years with the loyalty and care that is usually part of family owned business. They are prompt in responding when there is need and knowledgeable in their field. It is good to have them located in Salem, IL.
Response from the owner: Thank you! We appreciate your business throughout the years!
Security Alarm handles our security at the office. They have always been on top of things if we have an alarm go off. I have set it off on accident and they are quick to call and check on me. very professional and anytime I call with a question or problem it is taken care of immediately.
Response from the owner: Thank you!
Wonderful business to wok with!They are dependable and great to work with!Stephen MossAirport ManagerPKJY Airport
Response from the owner: Thank you, Stephen!
Installed motion detectors, glass break detectors and panic alarms..they always worked.
Response from the owner: Thank you, Karen!
I have been with Security Alarm for many years. They respond promptly and efficiently when my alarm has been activated. The system protects my entire home and gives me a feeling of security.
Response from the owner: Thank you, June!
Extremely professional, very nice looking installation, very knowledgeable, very thorough explanation of my new security system. The best installers and company! I highly recommend them!!!
Response from the owner: Thank you, Russ, for taking the time to leave us a review! We SO appreciate it!
I called Security Alarm to check on cameras for outside since we had used them in our Ag business for years. The process to get lined up was simple and Larry was very thorough in explaining everything. They were out in just a few days to install them. Both guys were very friendly and professional. It didn't take long to install and I know they probably had wiring issues to deal with. They did a great job and the cameras show exactly where I wanted them. I am very pleased with the service and products installed.Thanks!
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to leave a review Cindy! We are so happy that you had a great experience with us and that you are pleased with the product. If either of those things ever change, please let us know!
Security Alarm has a great team and has always taken great care of my business and home. Would highly recommend!
Response from the owner: Thank you Eric for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate your loyal business over the years.
“Staff performance: Just would like to report I have had excellent experiences with all your staff. They all have been very professional, courteous and personable. The one stand out is Watson. He has demonstrated a great deal of patience and genuine willingness to give his best to resolve any problems I have brought to him. His technical knowledge and ability to troubleshoot is outstanding. You have a solid team at Security Alarm and as a customer of yours I wanted you to know I appreciate it.”
We have several cameras from Security Alarm. Our favorite is the thermal imaging camera. It is great for watching pastures at night.
js_loader
js_loader

GET A FREE QUOTE

[gravityform id=”5″ title=”false” description=”false” ajax=”true”]

GET A FREE QUOTE