What to Do in an Electrical Fire

Stay Safe, Act Fast, and Know the Right Steps

An electrical fire can break out with little warning — and knowing how to respond in those critical first moments can mean the difference between a controlled incident and a major emergency.

Whether you work in an office, school, warehouse or care setting, here’s what to do in an electrical fire to protect yourself, your team, and your property.

Step 1: Cut the Power If It’s Safe to Do So

If the fire is coming from a known appliance or circuit, and it’s safe to approach the power source, switch it off at the fuse box or unplug the device. Never touch anything that’s sparking, smoking or already on fire.

Cutting power can stop the fire from spreading further — but don’t put yourself in danger trying to access electrical controls.

Step 2: Use the Right Fire Extinguisher

Do not use water on an electrical fire. Water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution or make the fire worse.

Instead, use:

• A CO₂ (carbon dioxide) extinguisher – best for electrical equipment

• A dry powder extinguisher – suitable for electrical and general fires

If you’re not trained or confident in using an extinguisher, evacuate immediately and leave it to the professionals.

Step 3: Evacuate the Area

Sound the alarm and get everyone out calmly and quickly. Electrical fires can release toxic smoke and may spread through walls or cables. Always follow your building’s fire evacuation plan and don’t assume the fire is contained.

If you’re the Responsible Person or fire warden, make sure:

• All staff and visitors are accounted for

• No one returns inside until it’s safe

• Emergency services are informed of the cause (if known)

Step 4: Call 999 and Report It

Even if you’ve put the fire out, you must still call the fire service to report it. Electrical fires can smoulder inside walls, wires or ceilings and reignite later.

Make sure you tell the call handler it was an electrical fire, so they can respond accordingly.

Step 5: Arrange a Professional Inspection

After an electrical fire, your entire system needs to be checked — even if the damage looks minimal. Faulty wiring, overloaded sockets or damaged appliances are often the root cause.

At Recall, we work with qualified electricians and can help coordinate full inspections, risk assessments, and system upgrades if needed.

Preventing the Next Fire

Once the immediate danger is dealt with, use it as a prompt to review your fire safety strategy:

• When was your last EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)?

• Are all portable appliances PAT tested?

• Is your fire alarm system regularly maintained?

• Do you have the right extinguishers on site?

• Have staff been trained in fire procedures?

Taking action now helps prevent future incidents — and ensures you’re meeting your legal responsibilities under UK fire safety law.

Final Word

Knowing what to do in an electrical fire is all about staying calm, acting safely, and calling for help quickly. Prevention is always best, but preparation is vital too.

Need support reviewing your fire safety procedures or equipment?

Get in touch with Recall — we’re here to help keep your business safe, compliant, and protected.