Electrical Appliances and Home Fire Risks

Electric shocks and fires caused by short circuits are everyday hazards that can occur at any time. A short circuit can happen in a house or condominium in any season and may spread into a serious fire, causing extensive damage.

How can you make your home safer, and what should you do if an emergency occurs? The following guidance can help you prepare and put safety first.

Electrical appliances that may create a home fire risk

1. Overloading an extension lead by using several high-power appliances at the same time can generate excessive heat.
2. Electrical appliances can deteriorate and cause a short circuit, so inspect them regularly.
3. Leaving an appliance plugged in for too long—for example, charging a mobile phone for an extended period—can generate heat.

Four actions to take if a fire starts at home

1. Remain calm and call 199 for the Bangkok fire service.
2. Locate the main breaker and switch off the electricity if it is safe to do so.
3. If the fire is small and can be controlled safely, use a suitable fire extinguisher.
4. If there is heavy smoke, protect yourself from smoke inhalation:
   – keep your face low;
   – cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth; and
   – stay close to the floor and crawl slowly towards an exit, because smoke rises.