Which is a common cause of electrical fires?

Overloaded circuits and faulty wiring are recognized as common causes of electrical fires due to their potential to generate excessive heat or sparks. When circuits are overloaded, the electrical current exceeds the safe capacity for the wiring, leading to overheating. This situation can cause insulation to melt, or even ignite flammable materials nearby, resulting in a fire. Additionally, faulty wiring can arise from improper installations, wear and tear, or damage, and can introduce risks such as short circuits and arcing—both of which significantly heighten the likelihood of a fire occurring. Effective preventative measures like regularly checking the condition of wiring, using breakers, and avoiding the use of multiple high-wattage devices on a single circuit can mitigate these risks and enhance electrical safety.