Electrical issues were the second leading cause of home fires between 2012 and 2016, according to the National Fire Protection Association -- and there's little evidence that the trend has changed.

Doug Smith is the energy division manager for West Coast Code Consultants (WC-3) and has been an inspector/plan reviewer for over 19 years. He currently serves on NEC Code-Making Panel 10 representing ...

Fixed rate electric plans offer convenience, protection and predictability. Variable-rate plans offer flexibility and the potential of savings. Here's how to know which is better for you.