Size Matters

10/9/2016 (Permalink)

A few years back SERVPRO of Coeur d'Alene was called out to a fire here in town. Upon our arrival, we discovered that the fire started in the garage and burned up into the master bathroom, master closet, and master bedroom. Gone also were two Cadillacs and everything in the garage. There was extensive smoke damage throughout the home. The husband was in the room by the garage entry door watching TV when he heard crackling noises. Upon discovering the source of the noised, he proceed to wake up his wife and they both exited safely.

The fire investigation revealed that the home owner had a refrigerator in the garage. Since it was to far away from the outlet, the homeowner proceeded to find one of those small two wire extension cords that one would use to power Christmas lights or a small lamp. The cord was to long, so the homeowner rolled it into a neat bundle an put a twist tie on it. Over time as the cord heated up, the wire from the twist tie melted into the cord insulation and well, the rest is history. Fortunately, insurance usually covers those kind of honest mistakes.

It was fortunate that the homeowners were home to discover the fire. SERVPRO was able to clean and restore most of their contents, as well as some valuable Native American artifacts. Remember to always use proper grounded and sized cords for plugging in appliances. When in doubt, bigger gauge wire is always better.