According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical malfunctions or failures accounted for 13% of home structure fires from 2012-2016 and were the second leading cause of U.S. home fires. Fires involving electrical malfunctions or failures accounted for the highest share of direct property damage and civilian deaths. Approximately two of five fires involving electrical malfunctions or failures occurred from November through February. In nearly three of five home fires involving an electrical malfunction or failure, arcing was the heat source. Similar to ESFI’s efforts in preventing electrocutions and childhood shocks and burns, ESFI seeks to educate the public on fire-preventing electrical technologies required by the National Electrical Code.
ESFI is a proud supporter of NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week. The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2022, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape,” works to educate the public on the importance of making a fire escape plan for your family. From October 9-15 2022, NFPA leads the charge for home fire safety, and ESFI provides resources to take proactive measures to prevent home electrical fires.
We encourage you to use our free fire prevention resources, including our infographics, to increase fire and electrical safety awareness in your family, community, workplace, or school.
https://www.esfi.org/program/fire-prevention/