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Dhanendra Kumar, a retired IAS officer and the first chairman of the Competition Commission of India (CCI), died in a fire after a suspected AC blast at his residence in Delhi’s Hauz Khas on Thursday night.
According to reports, the fire rapidly spread through the house, highlighting how quickly electrical mishaps linked to cooling appliances can turn fatal during peak summer months.
The tragic incident has once again raised concerns over household electrical safety. With temperatures soaring across several parts of India, ACs, coolers, refrigerators and heavy electrical loads are putting extra pressure on household wiring systems — especially in older homes where electrical infrastructure may not be designed for prolonged high-power usage.
Experts
often warn that many summer electrical accidents are preventable and are caused not just by faulty appliances, but by neglected maintenance, overloaded circuits, poor wiring and unsafe usage habits.
Here’s a 5-point summer safety checklist every Indian household should follow:
1. Never Ignore Strange Sounds, Burning Smells Or Water Leakage
An AC should never make loud buzzing noises, emit a burning smell, or leak excessively. These are often early warning signs of overheating, compressor failure, wiring issues, or short circuits.
Many people continue using malfunctioning ACs, assuming it is a minor issue, but electrical faults can escalate quickly. If you notice anything unusual, switch off the appliance immediately and call a certified technician.
2. Get Your AC Serviced Before Peak Summer
Dust accumulation, clogged filters, damaged wiring and low refrigerant levels force AC units to work harder, increasing overheating risks.
Experts recommend servicing ACs at least once before peak summer begins. Outdoor units should also be cleaned regularly because blocked airflow can raise internal temperatures and strain the system.
Old ACs that have not been serviced for years may require deeper inspection, especially for worn-out wires and loose electrical connections.
3. Avoid Overloading Power Sockets And Extension Boards
One of the biggest fire risks in Indian homes is overloaded electrical circuits. High-power appliances such as ACs, microwaves, geysers and refrigerators should ideally have dedicated power points.
Plugging multiple heavy appliances into one extension board or low-quality socket can lead to overheating and sparks. During summer, when electricity consumption spikes, this risk increases further.
If the lights flicker when your AC starts or the plug feels unusually hot, your wiring may already be under stress.
4. Don’t Leave ACs Running Unattended For Long Hours
Many households keep ACs running continuously overnight or even when rooms are empty. While modern ACs are designed for extended use, leaving malfunctioning units unattended for very long periods can increase fire risks.
Using timer settings, maintaining proper ventilation around the unit, and switching off appliances when not needed can help reduce electrical load and overheating.
This becomes even more important in older apartments with ageing electrical systems.
5. Install Smoke Alarms And Keep A Fire Extinguisher At Home
Most Indian homes still do not have basic fire safety equipment. A small smoke alarm can provide crucial early warning during electrical fires, especially at night when people are asleep.
Experts also recommend keeping a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires in accessible areas of the house. Importantly, electrical fires should never be doused with water, as it can worsen the situation and cause electrocution.
Families should also know emergency exit routes and keep emergency numbers easily accessible.
Why Summer Increases Electrical Fire Risks
During heatwaves, appliances work harder and often for longer durations. High temperatures can heat up compressors, wiring and overloaded circuits faster than usual.
In cities like Delhi, where older buildings coexist with rising cooling demands, the risk becomes even greater. Fire officials have repeatedly warned that poor maintenance and excessive electrical load are among the leading causes of residential fires during summer.
