During summer, fire departments across India report a sharp rise in household fires, largely caused by avoidable issues like electrical overloads, outdated wiring, and improper appliance use. The surge in cooling devices such as air conditioners and fans puts immense pressure on domestic circuits, especially in older homes where wiring hasn’t been upgraded. Overloaded systems can lead to overheating, short circuits, and fire outbreaks. Many residents remain unaware of these hidden risks, often adding new appliances without checking their home’s electrical capacity. Simple preventive steps like inspections and upgrades can help avoid tragic losses during the intense summer heat.Electrical fires are preventable. Regular inspections, good electrical control, and safe conduct can save your home and family. As summer heats up, so should your vigilance. Fire safety isn’t a seasonal checklist; it’s a year-round requirement.
Why are house fires more common in summer
When it gets hot, houses completely rely on power-hungry appliances like air conditioners, coolers, refrigerators, and fans. For most houses, especially older structures, the electrical system was not designed to support this level of load. The result: hot wires, burned insulation, and eventually short circuits that cause fires.Even such a simple process as plugging in an extra device or two to the power strip can lead to hazardous situations if the wiring cannot handle the demand. One of the most frequent reasons for summer fires is old or worn-out electrical wiring. Individuals bring new up-to-date appliances to old houses that were built years ago but fail to refurbish the power system within. The moment more devices draw current through old wiring, the insulation starts melting and revealing live wires, causing sparks and, ultimately, fires.
Preventive tips to avoid fire outbreaks
- Replace electrical wiring
If your home is older than 15–20 years and not electrical audited, get a licensed electrician to do the job now. It would be wise to replace the wiring so that it can safely serve modern power needs.
- Fit correct MCBs and safety devices
Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) are crucial to cut off the power supply automatically when there is an overload or short circuit. Having one is not enough, though it has to suit your power load. The wrong MCB installed is like wearing the wrong size seatbelt: it won’t protect you in an accident.
- Know where your main switch is located
For emergency situations, having a means to readily turn off the electricity can prevent a minor problem from growing into a disaster. All members of the household should be taught where it is.
- The kitchen: A fire-fragile area
Most of the fire incidents during summer start in the kitchen, where electricity and gas are combined. Microwaves, blenders, and toasters should never be kept side by side with LPG cylinders or gas pipes, as a short circuit can easily become an explosion. Fire officials also suggest keeping a small fire extinguisher nearby the kitchen and ensuring proper ventilation in order to prevent accumulation of gas.
Common mistakes to avoid electrical fires
Plugging too many devices into a single extension or socket can result in overheating and sparking. Avoid multi-plug adapters unless required, and never use them piled up at the same time.Exposed wires or broken wires are live bombs waiting. These must be fixed instantly to avoid contact with flammable materials like wood, plastic, or fabric.Joining wires of two different metals (like copper and aluminum) creates low-quality joints, leading to poor conductivity and increased fire risks.
Why home EV charging can be dangerous
With the increasing popularity of electric mobility, people started charging EVs and e-rickshaws in their homes using regular wall sockets. This is dangerous. Electric vehicle charging uses a specialized, high-capacity circuit—ordinary plugs are just not designed to handle continuous high current. Eventually, this can lead to overheating circuits and even fires, particularly at night when EVs tend to be charged alone.
Safety advice for summers
- Never let cooking burn unattended, particularly when burning oil or gas.
- Don’t smoke close to flammable areas or indoors.
- Don’t run wires through carpets or under doors; this leads to wear and concealed sparks.
- Service appliances frequently, especially heavy-duty items like ACs, geysers, and refrigerators.
- Employ voltage stabilizers or surge protectors against voltage fluctuations.
- Change plugs and cords immediately when they accumulate damage.
Electrical meter box safety
- Fires tend to start around electric meter panels, usually because of obstructions or poor placement.
- Install meter boxes in properly ventilated, fire-resistant enclosures.
- Avoid installing meters close to emergency exits or staircases; a fire here can block exit routes.
- Keep inflammable items like paper, chemicals, or fuel away from them.
Important tips:
Despite all caution, accidents do happen. Because of this, one should:
- Train all members of the household on fire response.
- Make sure fire escape routes and staircases are clear at all times.
- Do not fasten terrace or fire door gates as they should be left unlocked in case of emergencies.
- Install smoke detectors in strategic locations for early warning.
Also Read | Summer makeover tips for a brighter, cooler home
