Damaged wiring, overloaded outlets, and improperly used appliances can cause fires and electrical injuries. Liberty Fire District encourages residents to recognize warning signs and use electrical equipment safely in houses, mobile homes, and RVs.

Know the Warning Signs

Have a qualified electrician investigate:

• Outlets or switches that are unusually warm, discolored, or scorched.
• Burning odors, buzzing, or crackling from electrical equipment.
• Repeatedly tripping breakers or blown fuses.
• Loose outlets that do not hold plugs securely.
• Flickering lights or other unexplained electrical problems.

If you see smoke, flames, or active sparking, leave the area and call 911. Do not touch or attempt to repair energized equipment.

Use Outlets Safely

• Avoid overloading outlets with multiple appliances.
• Plug major appliances and electric space heaters directly into an appropriate wall outlet.
• Never remove a plug’s grounding prong.
• Keep electrical equipment away from water.
• Have damaged outlets and wiring repaired by a qualified electrician.
• Never bypass a circuit breaker or install an oversized fuse to stop repeated interruptions.

A tripping breaker may indicate a problem. Have the cause checked rather than repeatedly resetting it.

Extension Cords and Power Strips

Extension cords are for temporary use—not a substitute for permanent wiring.

• Choose cords rated for the equipment and location.
• Inspect cords for cuts, damaged insulation, and broken plugs.
• Do not run cords beneath rugs, through walls, or where doors and furniture can pinch them.
• Never connect power strips to other power strips or extension cords.
• Keep cords clear of walkways and exits.
• Do not exceed a cord or power strip’s electrical rating.

A power strip adds plug spaces; it does not increase the capacity of the circuit.

Appliances and Lighting

• Follow the manufacturer’s installation and operating instructions.
• Replace damaged cords rather than covering damage with tape.
• Use light bulbs within the fixture’s recommended wattage.
• Keep lamps and hot bulbs away from curtains, bedding, and other combustible materials.
• Keep dryer lint filters and exhaust systems clean.
• Stop using an appliance that overheats, sparks, or produces a burning odor.

Mobile Homes and RVs

• Have electrical repairs and modifications performed by qualified professionals.
• Use RV power cords and connections rated for your equipment and electrical supply.
• Inspect plugs and connections for damage, corrosion, or signs of overheating.
• Keep outdoor connections protected from water as directed by the manufacturer.
• Do not modify plugs, defeat grounding, or bypass electrical safety devices.
• Have repeated breaker trips or connection problems investigated before continuing use.

If touching an RV or its metal components causes a shock or tingling sensation, stop using the electrical system and have it evaluated. Keep others away.

Electrical Equipment After Storms or Water Damage

Do not use electrical equipment that has been submerged or damaged by water until a qualified professional determines it is safe.

Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them. Report the hazard to 911 and the electric utility.

Never connect a generator to a household wall outlet. Connections to building wiring require properly installed transfer equipment.

If an Electrical Fire Starts

Get everyone outside, stay outside, and call 911.

Never pour water on energized electrical equipment. Do not delay evacuation to unplug equipment, reach a breaker panel, or fight a fire.

Working smoke alarms and a practiced escape plan remain essential.

Questions About Home Fire Safety?

Liberty Fire District offers voluntary Home Fire Safety Visits for residents within the District. We can discuss potential fire hazards and recommend improvements. These visits do not replace an electrical inspection or repairs by a qualified electrician.

Phone: 850-892-5833
Email: info@LibertyFireDistrictFL.gov
Online: Contact Us

For a fire or other emergency, call 911.