Old 08-07-2013, 03:49 AM
  #9  
Retired Fire Chief
Super Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: Saginaw Michigan
Posts: 2,305
Default

The only time it might be a fire hazard is if the wires to the switch are loose and you would see a bright arcing when you turn to switch on. Anything combustible near loosely connected electrical wires can be a fire hazard, including the insulation on the wiring. There is wiring that is in a fire resistive insulated jacket but it is expensive and is only used where the national code requires it such as hospitals, nursing homes. If your house is older it is always wise to check the wires connected to electrical outlets, especially those used often. Pulling plugs out can pull on the receptacle and loosen the wired. Make sure the wires are tightly attached to the outlet for the best conductivity and to prevent arcing from the wire (electrical source) to the conductor on the receptacle be it a screw post or a push in connector. At switches if you ever see a flash when you turn it on or off, do the same. The paper covering the plate should not spread fire rapidly but would smolder similar to wiring insulation behind a wall until it has enough oxygen or another fuel to free burn.
Retired Fire Chief is offline