A family of four settles in for movie night, until they catch a whiff of smoke. They jump up, checking every room for the source. Within minutes, a smouldering fire erupts beneath the very couch they had been sitting on. The cause? An overloaded extension cord hidden beneath the furniture.

Electrical fires are more common, and more dangerous, than many homeowners realize. Every year, electrical fires cause hundreds of injuries, deaths, and over a billion dollars in property damage across North America. The good news? Most are preventable.

At Paul Davis, we know that prevention is the best protection. Here’s what you need to know about the most common causes of electrical fires - and how to avoid them.

Cause: Overloaded Extension Cords or Circuits

Extension cords and home wiring systems are only designed to handle a certain electrical load. Plugging in too many devices, or using cords improperly, can cause overheating and fires.

Cure: Never overload an extension cord. Avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords or plugging high-wattage appliances into a single outlet. If you consistently need more power, have your home’s electrical capacity assessed and upgraded by a licensed electrician.

Cause: Outdated or Damaged Wiring

Older homes may have electrical systems that don’t meet modern safety codes. Wires may degrade over time due to pests, age, or structural settling, resulting in loose outlets or exposed conductors.

Cure: Have your home’s wiring inspected by a qualified electrician, especially if your home is over 30 years old or shows signs of wear. Upgrade grounding systems and replace damaged or outdated components as needed.

Cause: Overheating Appliances and Devices

Portable heaters, dryers, and other high-wattage devices can spark devastating fires, especially if used near flammable materials or not cleaned properly.

Cure: Clean and maintain all appliances according to manufacturer guidelines. Unplug them when not in use. Keep them away from curtains, bedding, and furniture, and ensure circuits can handle the load. Service or replace any equipment that overheats or malfunctions.

Use Certified Devices Only

Only use electrical products approved by a recognized safety certification body like CSA (Canadian Standards Association) or UL (Underwriters Laboratories). Some insurers may deny claims if fires are caused by uncertified or counterfeit devices.

Need an Electrical Fire Safety Check?

Don’t wait for a close call to take action. Contact Paul Davis Restoration for professional fire damage prevention and response services. Our teams are certified, insured, and available 24/7 across Canada.

Call 1-800-661-5975 for expert advice or emergency service.



Stay safe. Stay prepared. Trust Paul Davis.