SCHINNEN, The Netherlands -- We live in a day and age when all kinds of electrical devices are all around us for daily use. We rely on these devices, but many of us do not give a second thought to the potential fire risk they present.
Every piece of electrical equipment that is plugged into an electrical socket and switched on generates heat. This heat must be able to escape through some form of natural or forced ventilation. Equipment that is boxed in can't get rid of its heat and therefore becomes a fire hazard.
Electrical equipment usually has ventilation grids, but if dust can accumulate and clog up these grids, the fire hazard is there. The heat can't get out and overheating or short circuiting can occur.
Chargers are also an underestimated fire hazard. Many people don't think twice about leaving a charger in the electrical socket even though no device is being charged. A plugged in charger still uses electricity, even though no device is connected for charging. Always unplug chargers if nothing is being charged. Small devices can cause big fires.
The quality of charging devices is not always reliable. Fires have started because of malfunctioning charging devices. Do not leave a device on a charger overnight or if you are not at home. Do not place devices that are being charged on or around combustible materials that could easily catch fire.
Devices such as routers, modems, and decoders should also be considered. Routers are often located out of sight, behind a drape or curtain for example. If dust accumulates on the ventilation grid and the device overheats starting a fire the drape/curtains will catch fire. In no time, the room could be engulfed by fire. Keep the ventilation grids of electrical devices clean. Avoid close proximity to combustible items.
Electrical devices and appliances can make life easier, but they can also ruin a life due to overheating or malfunctioning.
For more information contact the U.S. Army Garrison Benelux Fire Prevention Office at DSN 361-5401 (Chièvres and Brussels) and DSN 360-7230 (Schinnen).
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