If you have a fire or water emergency, please call us now at (781) 245-0011

To have the optimal experience while using this site, you will need to update your browser. You may want to try one of the following alternatives:

Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Know the Signs: Electrical vs. Regular Fires

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

In the ‘heat’ of the moment we are not going to stop and analyze a fire to find its source or research how best to extinguish it. Different kinds of fires require different solutions and service master strategies. Knowing which type of fire you’re dealing with can help put a stop to the problem faster. 

How to Identify An Electrical Fire

The thing about electrical fires is they will let you know they are coming. If an outlet feels warm, you have a frayed wire, or you blow fuses regularly, these could all be signs that an electrical fire is likely to happen. 

In addition to this, an electrical fire has a certain odor that is pungent and unmistakable, often compared to fish or something rotten. 

Expert Electrical Fire Tip

A “regular” fire is also known as a class A fire, which is caused by everyday items such as wood, cloth, and paper catching fire. The best way to put out this type of fire is to smother it. You can do this by dousing the heat with water. 

For an electrical fire, DO NOT use water! This is a sure(fire) way to get electrocuted. 

Instead, use a fire extinguisher or baking soda. This will smother the fire the same way water would a regular fire. 

In either case, always call 911 so that the fire department can follow up and inspect the property, even if the flames are already extinguished. 


Noticing some possible warning signs of an electrical fire?  Your local SERVPRO MA team is standing by for any fire restoration service you might need.

Other News

View Recent Posts