A cable fire causes considerable damage. How do you recognize a cable fire and how do you prevent it? Find out here how to protect yourself and how to act correctly in the event of a fire.
Hidden in the wall or behind furniture, a cable fire can initially spread unnoticed. Listen for crackling noises and the smell of burning plastic.
Cable fire insurance: What matters
You only notice a cable fire when it is too late: around a third of all fires are caused by electrical defects, often in the form of cable fires. Such a fire spreads in a matter of seconds and quickly causes major damage. Lucky for those who are insured. But which insurance is used for cable fires and how can you prevent such fires?
What is a cable fire?
A cable fire occurs when the electrical insulation heats up. This causes the cable to smolder and catch fire. Since cables are usually laid behind pieces of furniture, the fire initially goes unnoticed and then spreads rapidly.
What causes cable fires?
In order to avoid a cable fire, it is important to investigate the cause. Cable fires are often caused by faulty cables or electrical devices or improper operation.
overload
Overloading occurs when too much current flows through a cable. This often happens when too many devices are plugged into one power source. Be aware of the load limits of cables and outlets to avoid overheating.
Short circuit
A short circuit occurs when the electrical current takes an unintended path. Causes can be damaged cable insulation, faulty connections or moisture ingress. Check electrical installations regularly to identify potential short circuits early.
wear and tear
Over time, cables can be damaged by mechanical stress, chemical exposure or environmental influences. A worn cable has weakened insulation and can overheat or short-circuit more easily. Carry out regular visual inspections and replace old or damaged cables in good time.
Defective materials
Materials that do not comply with standards or are of poor quality can lead to overheating and fire more quickly. Only use certified, high-quality cables and electrical components. When purchasing electrical items, look for recognized quality seals and that they are manufactured in accordance with EU guidelines.
Charging your cell phone can cause a cable fire
Charging a cell phone can cause a cable fire if unapproved or damaged chargers and cables are used, the device is placed on easily flammable surfaces or is overcharged. It is important to only use tested and compatible chargers and not to charge the device unattended. You can find further information in our guide on charging your cell phone correctly.
With GEV you are covered against cable fire damage
The following insurance policies offer protection against damage caused by cable fire:
Die Homeowners insurance provides protection for the building and its permanently installed components.
Die Personal liability insurance covers damage that is unintentionally caused to others, e.g. if a tenant causes a cable fire.
Die Home contents insurance provides protection for household goods such as furniture, clothing and electronics.
How can you recognize a cable fire?
Because of their insulation, cable fires can smolder for a long time before visible damage occurs. However, there are some warning signs that indicate a cable fire. Pay particular attention to the following signs:
Burning smell
A pungent smell, similar to that of burnt plastic, can be an early sign of overheated wiring or insulation. If you notice such a smell, especially near outlets or electrical devices, you should immediately investigate the cause.
Crackling noises
Audible crackling noises coming from walls, ceilings or appliances can be an indication of smoldering cables or electrical sparks. These noises are often subtle, but may be more noticeable in the silence of the night. Don’t ignore such noises, take action. In such a case, have the cables inspected professionally.
Overheating
If cables, sockets or switches are unusually hot, this may be a sign of overload or faulty wiring. Check the temperature of your electrical installations regularly, especially after prolonged use. Be careful when doing this by using the back of your hand, as it is more sensitive to heat.
Flickering lamps
If powered lights start to flicker, it could indicate an unstable power supply or problems with the wiring. Occasional flickering can be normal, but frequent or persistent flickering should raise your concerns and prompt an electrical check.
Dysfunctions
Unexplained malfunctions in electrical devices can indicate problems with the wiring. If devices suddenly stop working properly or turn off unexpectedly, this could indicate fluctuations in the power supply caused by faulty wiring.
Blowing fuses
If the fuse suddenly and repeatedly trips, it may be an early warning sign of a wiring fire. While occasional overloads may be normal, frequent trips indicate a more fundamental problem – possibly an incipient wiring fire.
Visible damage to cables
Cracks, breaks or melting insulation on cables are clear signs that electrical safety has been compromised. Regularly inspect visible parts of your wiring. Pay particular attention to areas that are frequently moved or subject to stress, such as cables behind furniture or near doors.
What do you do if there is a cable fire?
If you suspect a cable fire, act immediately to minimize the risk of damage and danger. Turn off the power and contact a specialist to have the electrical system safely checked and repaired.
In the event of a visible cable fire, particularly quick and cautious action is required:
Disable the power supply in the room. Call the fire department immediately on 112. Then document the damage in detail with photos and notes. Inform your insurance company and the landlord if you are renting an apartment immediately. Keep all relevant documents and invoices.
For more information on what to do after a fire, see our guide on what to do after a house or apartment fire.
Regular check-ups are the best prevention
A cable fire is often difficult to detect before it is too late. For this reason, in addition to insurance coverage, it is important to regularly check all cables used. If you know that the cables you have installed are older, a professional inspection can be helpful. This will reveal hidden risks of a cable fire and eliminate them before damage occurs.
Tips for preventing cable fires
Especially when it comes to cable fires, prevention is the best protection against fire damage. With the following tips, you can make your house and apartment safer against cable fires:
Regularly check electrical devices and cables for damage. Make yourself and your family aware of fire hazards. Do not connect too many devices to a single socket. Invest in good quality cables and electrical components.
You can find further preventive measures in our detailed guide to fire hazard prevention.
Conclusion: Properly insured against cable fire
Cable fires are particularly insidious because damage often only becomes apparent when it is already too late. Given the immense costs in the event of a fire, comprehensive coverage through building, contents and liability insurance is essential. These insurance policies not only protect you against direct fire damage, but also cover subsequent costs such as those for necessary hotel accommodation. Preventive measures are also crucial to minimising the risk. With the combination of insurance cover and preventive measures, you can effectively protect your home. Check your insurance cover regularly and adjust the amount of cover to best insured in case of cable fire to be.