Electrical fires are one of the most dangerous types of home emergencies. They can start suddenly, spread fast, and be incredibly difficult to contain if you don’t know how to respond. At All Spark Electric, serving Fort Worth and surrounding areas, we want every homeowner to know exactly how to put out an electrical fire safely and quickly—and how to prevent one from happening in the first place.
What Causes an Electrical Fire?
Before we dive into the steps, it’s important to understand what causes electrical fires in the first place. Most are the result of:
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Overloaded circuits or outlets
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Faulty wiring, especially in older homes
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Damaged or frayed cords on appliances
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Space heaters or high-wattage appliances left unattended
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Outdated electrical panels that can’t handle modern power loads
These issues can cause wires or electrical components to overheat, arc, or spark—igniting nearby materials such as wood, insulation, or furniture.
Warning Signs of an Electrical Fire
Some electrical fires begin behind walls or ceilings, making them harder to detect. But there are warning signs you can look out for:
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A burning or fishy smell near outlets or switches
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Warm or discolored wall plates
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Lights that flicker or dim without warning
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Circuit breakers that trip frequently
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Buzzing sounds from outlets or fixtures
These are not normal and should be addressed by a licensed electrician right away. Ignoring them could lead to a serious fire risk.
Step 1: Shut Off Power to Stop the Electrical Fire
If a fire does break out, the first and most important step is to cut the power—but only if it’s safe to do so.
Locate your electrical panel and flip the main breaker switch to shut off electricity to the entire home. This will prevent the fire from being fueled by the electrical current and make it safer to use other fire-suppression methods.
Warning: If the panel is near the fire, don’t attempt to reach it. Evacuate immediately and call 911.
Step 2: Never Use Water on an Electrical Fire
One of the most common and dangerous mistakes is trying to put out an electrical fire with water. Water conducts electricity, which can result in electrocution or cause the fire to spread even faster.
Even a small splash of water on energized electrical components can lead to serious injury or property damage. Always make sure the power is off before attempting any response.
Step 3: Use a Class C Fire Extinguisher
The safest and most effective way to extinguish an electrical fire is with a Class C fire extinguisher. These are specifically designed to put out fires involving energized electrical equipment.
Many household extinguishers are labeled ABC, which means they are safe for use on Class A (ordinary combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (electrical) fires.
To use an extinguisher, remember PASS:
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Pull the pin
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Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
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Squeeze the handle slowly and evenly
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Sweep side to side until the flames are gone
After the flames are extinguished, monitor the area to make sure the fire doesn’t reignite. If the fire doesn’t go out quickly, evacuate and call the fire department.
Step 4: Baking Soda Can Help With Small Electrical Fires
If you don’t have a fire extinguisher and the fire is still small (like a flaming toaster), you can use baking soda to smother the flames. Baking soda contains sodium bicarbonate, which releases carbon dioxide when heated—helping to starve the fire of oxygen.
Pour a generous amount directly on the flames. Never use flour or sugar, which can actually ignite and make the fire worse.
Step 5: Evacuate if the Fire Spreads
If your efforts to control the fire don’t work, or if it begins to spread beyond a single outlet or appliance, evacuate the home immediately. Close doors behind you to help contain the fire, and call 911 once you’re at a safe distance.
Do not go back inside until the fire department says it’s safe.
How to Prevent an Electrical Fire
At All Spark Electric, we believe the best way to fight an electrical fire is to prevent it from starting. Here are a few key safety tips:
1. Don’t Overload Circuits
Avoid plugging too many high-power devices into a single outlet or power strip. Use surge protectors and spread out your appliance usage.
2. Replace Damaged Cords and Outlets
If you notice frayed wires or loose outlets, stop using them and have them replaced immediately.
3. Schedule Routine Electrical Inspections
Have your electrical system checked by a licensed electrician at least every 5–10 years—or sooner if you live in an older home.
4. Upgrade Outdated Panels
Many older homes in Fort Worth still have fuse boxes or outdated breaker panels that weren’t designed for modern power needs. Upgrading to a modern panel with AFCIs (arc-fault circuit interrupters) greatly reduces fire risk.
5. Install Smoke Detectors
Install smoke detectors in every room and test them monthly. Consider installing hardwired detectors with battery backup for increased reliability.
Why Fort Worth Homeowners Trust All Spark Electric
When it comes to home electrical safety, All Spark Electric is your go-to expert in Fort Worth, TX. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners upgrade their systems, identify hidden hazards, and prevent fire risks before they happen.
We’re licensed, insured, and locally trusted for:
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Prompt service
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Transparent pricing
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Friendly, certified electricians
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Emergency and after-hours availability
Whether you’re dealing with frequent breaker trips, need a panel upgrade, or just want peace of mind with a full home inspection, we’re here to help.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to put out an electrical fire safely and quickly could save your life—and your home. But prevention and preparation are just as important. Make sure your home is equipped with the right safety tools, and don’t hesitate to contact a professional if something doesn’t feel right.
If you’re in Fort Worth or nearby areas and want to make your home safer, reach out to All Spark Electric today. We’ll make sure everything behind your walls is working exactly as it should.
