A rapid response by the Seminole Fire Department on Wednesday afternoon to a fire that was reported at the Executive Inn, 2323 Boren Blvd., prevented what could have been a much larger blaze. Firefighters quickly contained the blaze to a single room with minor damage incurred.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, although it appears to have been an electrical issue. Fire Chief Fielding Lucas states that, as a safety precaution, the Executive Inn has been closed so that it can be confirmed all of the electrical wiring is up to code. Roma’s Italian Restaurant, which is attached to the Inn, remains open.

To help prevent electrical fires in your home, it is highly recommended that you have a licensed electrician review your home’s electrical system every ten years. Small upgrades and safety checks can prevent much larger problems, and possibly save lives.

Do not overload outlets. Plug heat generating appliances such as space heaters or hot plates directly into an outlet, NOT into a power strip or extension cord. Don’t put electrical cords underneath rugs or pinched behind furniture. Charge laptops and phones on hard surfaces, only, not on beds, sofas, or other flammable materials. Always unplug a device by pulling on the plug and not the cord, which can damage wiring. Consider installing tamper resistant outlets in homes with small children.

Warning signs that you may have an electrical problem include: frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers; dim or flickering lights and bulbs that wear out too fast; overheated plugs, cords, or switches; shock or mild tingling, more than normal static electricity; unusually warm or faulty outlets or switches. If you experience any of these warning signs call the fire department or a reputable electrician immediately.