Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has been called out to more than 1,200 electrical fires in the last three years, a new investigation has revealed.
Figures obtained by Legal Expert, show that of those, more than 580 happened in domestic properties with the leading cause being wiring, cabling and plugs.
Around 4,000 house fires across the UK every year are caused by faulty electrics, according to the Home Office.
In the run up to Christmas, fire services across the UK are releasing their latest advice and guidance about how to stay safe during the festive period.
Last year, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) issued a specific warning to residents urging them to “Take Charge and Be Safe with electrical presents at Christmas” following an “increase of incidents over the past year involving electrical items, particularly chargers for electric bikes and scooters.”
The fire service reminded residents to make sure that they are buying the correct chargers from reputable retailers.
Legal Expert’s investigation has found that between 2021 and 2024, Cambridgeshire fire crews attended 1,240 fires caused by electricals alone. Of those, 585 were in domestic properties (homes) – while 251 were in commercial properties such as office buildings.
What’s more, CFRS revealed the leading cause of electrical fires in the last three years was wiring, cables and plugs which accounted for 254 incidents, followed by cookers and ovens which were the cause of 188 fires since 201.
Electrical faults caused 172 fires and apparatus including batteries and generators caused a further 104.
CFRS also confirmed that in the last three years, there have been five deaths as a result of electrical fires as well as 80 injuries.
The service is warning all residents to remain vigilant this Christmas especially when it comes to festive, electrical decorations.
Research into electrical house fires here:
Our Research Into Electrical House Fires
Station Commander Gareth Boyd, Community Risk Manager at the Service added: “Not only are electrical devices a key part of everyday life for most people, but they also make great Christmas presents for family members and friends…
“Our crews have dealt with an increased number of incidents involving e-bikes, e-scooters and lithium battery powered devices. We’ve seen residents have some fortunate escapes where they’ve realised the battery is experiencing thermal runaway, meaning it’s heating up to the point it’s ready to explode.
“As a result, these have been safely removed before they cause any damage. Most devices come with failsafe features to ensure they do not overheat when being charged but rely on the manufacturers provided charging cables and adapters to work. Also, using the plugs and wires supplied with the product rather than cheaper versions will help charge devices safely.
The Service is reminding people to Take Charge and Be Safe, not only when charging their devices, but also when planning on purchasing devices and presents. Also, checking the devices come with appropriate chargers and batteries; while also making sure any new or spare chargers are the correct specification.
Legal Expert has a team of specialist personal injury solicitors who are experienced in electrical fire claims due to defective products.
They operate a 24-hour helpline and claim online form, which you can access on their website.
FACT FILE
This data and research was gathered by FOI requests to all UK Fire Services, available upon request.
Other Sources: Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Christmas Statement
