If an electrical fire starts, your safety comes first. Never use water on an electrical fire, as water conducts electricity and can make the situation more dangerous.

If it is safe to do so:

  • Turn off the power at the breaker panel if you can reach it without risk

  • Use a Class C fire extinguisher, which is designed for electrical fires

  • If the fire is small and contained, smothering it with a fire extinguisher may stop it

If the fire is growing, you cannot safely shut off power, or smoke is spreading:

  • Leave the home immediately

  • Call 911 from a safe location

After any electrical fire, even a small one, a licensed electrician should inspect the electrical system. Electrical fires often indicate underlying wiring, outlet, or panel issues that need to be corrected to prevent future hazards.