Method One of Three:

Extinguishing Electrical Fires

Stop the fire before it starts. The majority of electrical fires stem from faulty
electrical wiring or poor maintenance of electrical systems. To stop an electrical fire before it starts,
do not overload electrical outlets and ensure that all electrical work is performed to code by a
licensed electrician.

 Also keep electrical systems clear of dust, trash, and spider webs, which can all lead to fires.[2]
 You should also use circuit breakers and fuses as often as possible, which are easy steps to take
in order to stop a power surge from starting a fire.

Turn off power to the electrical system. If an electrical system begins sparking or a fire ignites at
a wire, appliance, or outlet, then cutting the power to the system is the first, best step to take. If the
source is only sparking or the flame has not yet spread at all, this step alone may be enough to
extinguish the flame.

 You should cut the power at the breaker box rather than turning off the wall switch connected
to the outlet.
 If the problem stems from wiring or an appliance, do not simply pull the plug on the device.
The electrical problem occurring could very well be creating an electrocution hazard as well

Use a fire blanket to smother the fire Alternatively, you can use a fire blanket to smother the fire,
but this step is only applicable if you were able to turn off the power to the source completely.
Though wool (most fire blankets are chemically treated wool) is a good insulator of electricity, you
still don’t want to get close enough to the source and risk electrocution if the power remains on.

 To use a fire blanket, remove from its packing, grip the unfolded blanket in front of you with
your hands and body protected by it, and drape the blanket over the small fire. Do NOT throw
the blanket at the fire.
 Not only is this very effective in the early stages but does not damage surrounding area or
objects.

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Use water to extinguish the fire. If you don’t have any type of fire extinguisher or fire blanket
around, then you can use water; however, ONLY use water if you have 100% turned the power to
the source OFF. Otherwise you not only risk electrocution, but also spreading around the electricity,
which can spread the fire much more quickly. Throw the water at the base or seat of the fire.

 Water at the speed you can draw it from a sink will only be effective if the fire is very small and
contained. Otherwise, it will spread faster than you can douse it.