How to Put Out an Electrical Fire Safely (What to Do and What to Avoid)

Electrical fires can go from a spark to a full-blown disaster in seconds. Knowing how to put out an electrical fire can make all the difference when things heat up. So, before you reach for a glass of water (trust me, don’t), let’s break down what to do when sparks fly.

In this guide, I’ll cover how to spot an electrical fire, what to do when things get heated, the right tools to keep on hand, and smart ways to prevent electrical fires in the first place.

A Real-Life Scenario: When a Spark Turns Into an Inferno

Imagine this: Evan is rushing through his morning routine, trying to squeeze in breakfast before work. He pops some bread into his old toaster, the one with a slightly frayed cord that he keeps meaning to replace, and flicks it on.

But here’s the thing — Evan’s kitchen outlet is already overloaded. He’s got his toaster, coffee maker, and phone charger all plugged into the same power strip, which is also connected to an aging wall outlet. Not a great setup.

Suddenly, the toaster sparks and catches fire. Panic sets in, and Evan’s first instinct is to grab the nearest glass of water and throw it on the flames.

BIG mistake, Evan… water on an electrical fire can make things much worse!

What Did Evan Do Wrong?

• Using a Frayed Cord: Damaged cords can expose live wires, creating a high risk of sparking and overheating.
• Overloading an Outlet: Plugging multiple high-power devices into one outlet can cause overheating, blown fuses, or electrical fires.
• Throwing Water on the Fire: Water conducts electricity, increasing the risk of shock and potentially spreading the fire.

In this scenario, Evan made a series of critical mistakes by reacting without knowing the right safety steps. Let’s break down what you should actually do when faced with an electrical fire.

How to Prevent Electrical Fires and Stay Safe

Being proactive can drastically reduce the risk of electrical fires. Here are some essential tips to keep your home safe:

• Inspect wiring regularly: Replace frayed or damaged cords immediately.
• Avoid overloaded outlets: Use surge protectors and limit the number of devices plugged into one outlet.
• Update old electrical systems: Hire a licensed electrician to assess your wiring if your home is older.
• Unplug small appliances: When not in use, unplug devices like toasters and coffee makers.

Preventing electrical fires is all about staying proactive, but what if a fire does break out despite your best efforts? Knowing how to identify an electrical fire is the first step in responding quickly and safely.

Now, let’s walk through the telltale signs so you can act fast when every second counts!

How to Tell if a Fire is Electrical

Not all fires are created equal, and mistaking an electrical fire for a regular one can lead to some shocking consequences (pun intended). Before you start waving a towel around like you’re in an 80s hair band music video, it’s essential to know what you’re dealing with.

Electrical fires need a different approach than typical fires, and using the wrong method can turn a small problem into a full-blown disaster like it has for others in the past…

Signs You’re Dealing with an Electrical Fire

• Burning Smell from Outlets or Devices: If your living room suddenly smells like a plastic factory on fire, that’s a bad sign. Overheated wiring and melting insulation often have a distinct, sharp odor.
• Sparking or Arcing: Hearing a crackling, popping sound or seeing blue and white sparks? That’s not your neighbor’s 4th of July leftovers — it’s probably an electrical fire starting.
• Smoke with a Chemical or Metallic Odor: If the smoke smells more like a circuit board meltdown than a campfire, it’s likely electrical.
• Tripped Breakers or Blown Fuses: If your breaker box is constantly tripping like a clumsy tourist, you might have an overloaded circuit or faulty wiring.
• Charred or Discolored Outlets: Blackened, scorched, or discolored outlets can be a clear sign of past electrical arcing. This one’s basically the crime scene tape of electrical fires.
• Flickering Lights or Power Surges: If your lights are flickering like a horror movie, especially when you plug in high-wattage appliances, it’s a warning sign.

What Not to Do

• Don’t Use Water: Water conducts electricity, making the fire worse and putting you at risk of electric shock.
• Avoid Metal Tools: Using metal objects to try to move or disconnect the source can be extremely dangerous.

‼️ If your old fireplace is more “potential hazard” than “cozy gathering spot,” check out Childproof a Fireplace: Everything You Need to Know for tips on keeping little hands (and wayward sparks) safely in check. Now that you know what to watch for, let’s look at the tools you’ll need if sparks start flying. Because when it comes to electrical fires, it’s all about having the right gear on hand!

The Right Tools for Extinguishing an Electrical Fire

Now that the power is off, it’s time to put out the fire. While a Class C fire extinguisher is your best option, it’s not the only tool available. We also have some recs below to ensure you’re prepared for an electrical fire.

Class C Fire Extinguishers

These are designed specifically for electrical fires, using non-conductive agents like dry chemicals or CO₂ to smother flames without risking electrical shock. Make sure you have a Class C-rated extinguisher in any area where you have electrical equipment.

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire With a Fire Extinguisher:

1. Pull the pin: This unlocks the operating lever.
2. Aim low: Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. Squeeze the lever: This releases the extinguishing agent.
4. Sweep side to side: Move the nozzle back and forth until the flames are out.

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Extinguishers

CO₂ extinguishers are excellent for electrical fires because they displace oxygen, effectively smothering the flames while also cooling the equipment. These are especially useful for sensitive electronics, as they don’t leave a residue that could damage circuitry.

Best For: Server rooms, computer labs, and areas with sensitive electronics.

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire Using a Fire Blanket

Fire blankets are a simple but effective way to put out small electrical fires. They work by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply, effectively smothering the flames without the risk of electrical shock. Here’s how to use one safely:

Here’s how to use a fire blanket:

1. Pull the Blanket from Its Container: Fire blankets are usually stored in a quick-release pouch or container. Pull it out quickly but carefully.
2. Protect Your Hands: Use the edges of the blanket to protect your hands as you approach the fire. The blanket will shield you from the heat.
3. Cover the Flames Completely: Toss or carefully place the blanket over the flames, ensuring it covers the entire fire source to cut off the oxygen supply.
4. Leave the Blanket in Place: Don’t lift the blanket immediately to check if the fire is out. Leave it in place for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure the flames are fully smothered.
5. Turn Off the Power: If you haven’t already, cut the power at the breaker to prevent the fire from reigniting.
6. Call for Help if Needed: If the fire is too large or spreading, call 911 immediately and evacuate the area.

Best For: Small appliance fires, kitchen mishaps, and confined spaces where a fire extinguisher might be too bulky or slow to grab.

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire Using Baking Soda (for Small Fires Only)

Baking soda can be a surprisingly effective option for small electrical fires when you don’t have a fire extinguisher or blanket handy. It works by releasing carbon dioxide when heated, which helps smother the flames and cut off their oxygen supply.

Here’s how to use this DIY fire extinguishing method:

1. Cut the Power: If it’s safe to do so, turn off the power at the breaker or unplug the affected device to stop the electrical current.
2. Grab the Baking Soda: Quickly locate your baking soda — it’s usually in the pantry or a kitchen cabinet.
3. Cover the Flames: Generously pour the baking soda over the base of the fire, focusing on the flames themselves.
4. Keep an Eye on It: Watch for signs of reignition, and be ready to evacuate if the fire spreads.
5. Call for Help if Needed: If the fire grows or doesn’t go out immediately, call 911 and get everyone out.

Best For: Small fires in kitchens, workshops, or other workspaces where baking soda is within reach.

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire: Use Fire Suppression Sprays

Fire suppression sprays are compact aerosol cans designed for quick response to small electrical fires. They work like mini fire extinguishers, releasing a non-conductive suppressant that smothers flames without risking electrical shock. They’re often rated for multiple fire classes, including electrical, making them a versatile option for emergencies.

Here’s how to use these handy sprays:

1. Grab the Can: Quickly locate the fire suppression spray, usually stored in a kitchen drawer, glove compartment, or toolbox.
2. Aim at the Base of the Flames: Hold the can upright, aim at the base of the fire, and keep a safe distance.
3. Spray in Short Bursts: Press the nozzle and spray in short, controlled bursts, sweeping side to side to cover the flames.
4. Monitor for Reignition: Keep an eye on the area for a few minutes to ensure the fire is fully out and doesn’t reignite.
5. Call for Help if Needed: If the fire doesn’t go out quickly or starts to spread, evacuate and call 911.

Best For: Emergency kits, toolboxes, and car glove compartments where space is tight but safety is a priority.

Once you’ve got the right tools on hand, it’s just as important to know what NOT to use in an electrical fire. The wrong move can make a bad situation much worse.

What NOT to Use When Fighting an Electrical Fire:

• Water: It conducts electricity and can lead to shock.
• Flammable Liquids: These can make the fire worse.
• Basic Kitchen Towels: These can ignite and add fuel.

If you’re worried about kitchen burns or scalds, check out How to Prevent Burns and Scalds in Children. When it comes to keeping little ones safe, having the right gear makes all the difference.

Speaking of being prepared, here’s a quick rundown of must-have items for electrical fire safety…

Electrical Fire Fighting Essentials: Tools You Need to Stay Safe

Having the right tools on hand can make all the difference when dealing with an electrical fire in your home. Here are three essential items every household should consider:

1. First Alert Rechargeable Home Fire Extinguisher

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
• Designed for Class C (electrical) fires
• Lightweight and easy to use, with a durable metal head
• Features a secure pull pin and easy-to-read pressure gauge

2. Pyrotex Fire Blanket (Emergency Use)

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
• Made of high-quality fiberglass
• Ideal for smothering small electrical fires without risk of electric shock
• Easy to store and deploy in kitchens, garages, and workshops

3. Kidde Fire Escape Ladder (13-Foot)

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5)
• Essential for multi-story home safety
• Strong, durable, and easy to deploy in emergencies
• Tangle-free design with anti-slip rungs

Once you’ve stocked up on the right gear, it’s important to know when to use it and when to step back and call for help. Here’s what to do if the fire starts spreading…

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire Quickly and Safely

If it’s safe to do so, the most effective and #1 step in handling an electrical fire is to cut the power source. This means turning off the circuit breaker or unplugging the affected device if the fire is localized and not too intense. Cutting the power stops the electrical current from feeding the fire, reduces the risk of electric shock, and prevents the fire from spreading through your home’s wiring.

How to Find and Shut Off the Power During an Electrical Fire

Locating the power source quickly is critical in an electrical fire. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Locate the Circuit Breaker: Find your main circuit breaker panel, usually in a basement, garage, or utility room. If you’re not sure where it is, now is a good time to find it before an emergency hits.
• Identify the Correct Breaker: If the fire is coming from a specific outlet or appliance, try to cut power to that area first. If you can’t identify the specific breaker, turn off the main power switch to cut all electricity to the house.
• Unplug the Affected Device: If it’s safe to do so, unplug the device that started the fire, but only if the flames are still small and you’re not at risk of electric shock.
• Stay Safe: Never touch a live wire or try to unplug a device that’s actively sparking or melting.

Once the power is off, you’ve significantly reduced the danger, but cutting the current is just the first step. Now, it’s time to choose the right tools to put out the fire safely.

If the fire is too large to handle or spreads rapidly, call 911 immediately. Evacuate the building and wait for professional assistance. Never attempt to fight a fire that is already out of control.

When to Call for Help: Knowing When to Walk Away

Even with the right tools and quick action, some electrical fires are simply too dangerous to handle alone. Knowing when to call for professional help is critical for your safety.

Signs You Should Evacuate Immediately

• The Fire Is Spreading Rapidly: If the flames are moving faster than you can contain, it’s time to leave.
• Thick, Black Smoke: Heavy, toxic smoke can make it difficult to breathe and see, increasing your risk of injury.
• The Fire Is Blocking Your Exit: Never attempt to fight a fire if it’s between you and the only way out.
• Electrical Equipment Is Melting or Exploding: Sparking, popping sounds, or melting wires are clear signs the situation is beyond control.
• You’re Feeling Overwhelmed or Disoriented: If you’re panicking or struggling to think clearly, it’s safer to evacuate.

What to Do If You Need to Evacuate

1. Alert Others: Make sure everyone in the building knows to leave immediately. Gather any pets and make sure they’re safe!
2. Close Doors Behind You: This can help slow the spread of the fire.
3. Call 911 from a Safe Distance: Provide as much information as possible about the fire’s location and intensity.
4. NEVER Go Back Inside: Once you’re out, stay out. Let the professionals handle it.

If you’ve just faced down an electrical fire, you’re probably rethinking a few of your kitchen habits. For more tips on keeping your home fire-free (and your nerves intact), check out Childproofing Gas and Electric Stoves: The Ultimate Guide! — because it’s never too early to teach your appliances some manners.

Now that the immediate danger is over, let’s talk about what to do after an electrical fire to make sure your home is truly safe.

What to Do After an Electrical Fire: Staying Safe in the Aftermath

Surviving a harrowing electrical fire is a huge relief, but the work isn’t over yet. The aftermath of a fire can leave hidden dangers and long-term damage that you need to address right away to keep your home and family safe.

Here’s what to do once the smoke clears:

Check for Hidden Hot Spots
Electrical fires can smolder for hours, so it’s essential to double-check that all potential ignition points are fully extinguished. This includes outlets, wiring, and appliances that may have been exposed to heat.

⚠️ Tip: Use a thermal camera or infrared thermometer if you have one, or carefully feel for heat around affected outlets (without touching exposed wires, of course).

Assess Electrical Fire Damage
Inspect your wiring, outlets, and appliances for visible signs of heat damage. Look for melted insulation, scorched plugs, or blackened sockets. It’s best to have a licensed electrician inspect the area to ensure there’s no lingering electrical hazard.

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire: After the Assessment of the Scene

Once the immediate danger has passed and the flames are out, your focus should shift to recovery and long-term safety. Electrical fires can leave behind hidden hazards and lingering smoke that need immediate attention. Here’s what to do to fully recover and prevent future incidents:

Ventilate the Area
Open windows and use fans to clear lingering smoke and chemical fumes. Electrical fires can release toxic gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen chloride, which are harmful to breathe.

Replace or Repair Electrical Fire Damage
Anything that was exposed to extreme heat or flames should be repaired or replaced. This includes appliances, power cords, surge protectors, and even small electronics.

⚠️ After the Fire: Safety Checks and Smart Next Steps

Update Your Fire Safety Plan
Use this as a learning opportunity to improve your fire safety plan. Make sure everyone in your household knows where fire extinguishers are, how to use them, and when to evacuate.

Consider Upgrading Your Electrical System
If your fire was caused by old or faulty wiring, consider having an electrician upgrade your system. This can reduce the risk of future fires and might even lower your insurance premiums.

Contact Your Insurance Company
Document the damage with photos and videos before you start cleaning up, and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. They’ll guide you through the claims process and help cover the costs of repairs.

Replace Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms
If your smoke detectors went off during the fire, replace their batteries and test them to ensure they’re still functioning. This is also a good time to consider upgrading to smart smoke detectors for added peace of mind.

After you’ve assessed the damage and taken steps to prevent a future fire, it’s important to remember that electrical fire safety is an ongoing commitment. With the right preparation and a bit of caution, you can keep your home and family safe for years to come!

Prevent, Prepare, Protect

Electrical fires can be downright scary, but with a little know-how, you can handle them safely and keep your home from becoming a cautionary tale. Always remember to turn off the power first, use the correct extinguisher, and never use water on an electrical fire — unless you want to meet your electrician on a first-name basis.

If you’ve survived an electrical fire, had a close call, or made the classic water-on-an-electrical-fire mistake (hey, no judgment): share your story in the comments! Your experience might just help someone else avoid a shocking situation.

Be aware, and stay safe!

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