Electrical emergencies range from fires, power surges, and outages to shocks, short circuits, and lightning strikes. Each situation requires a unique approach that may involve evacuating the building in case of immediate danger. You should also contact electricians as soon as possible. Here is what to do in an electrical emergency:
Assess the Situation
Assessing the situation helps you determine an effective course of action and gather information to share with responding electricians. When experiencing an electrical emergency, you should:
- Power outage: Check if nearby homes and buildings have lights. Unplugging your appliances helps avoid power surges when electricity returns. Report the outage to your utility company and use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
- Electrical fire: A Class C or multipurpose ABC fire extinguisher can be used to put out the fire. If the fire spreads, call emergency services and contact an electrician to address any damage caused to your unit. Turn off the main electrical switch or circuit breaker to the affected area if it is safe. To prevent electrocution, avoid using water and evacuate the area.
- Electrocution: Avoid touching an electrocuted person unless you are trained in first aid and CPR. A non-conductive object, like a wooden or plastic pole, can be used to remove them from the source of electricity. Turn off the power source if possible and call for emergency medical help.
- Downed power lines: Stay far away from the lines, warn others, and do not touch the wires. Call your utility company or emergency services immediately. If the issue is an electrical appliance malfunction, the device should be unplugged, the power turned off, and an electrician called.
Seek Professional Help
Electrical emergencies require professional assistance to avoid accidents and prevent further damage. You should seek professional help immediately before doing anything else. An electrician can help you determine if unplugging the appliance or turning off the main power supply is safe. Follow the safety instructions provided by the electrician, utility company, or first responders. Issues involving smoke or fire usually require immediate evacuation and emergency services.
You can extinguish small fires, but call firefighters for fast-spreading flames. When using the fire extinguisher, wear a mask to protect yourself from the smoke and the smell of burning wires. Avoid touching or coming into contact with any exposed wires. If someone is injured or in a life-threatening situation, call for help as you assess the situation.
Schedule Repairs
After initial emergency response procedures, an electrician can inspect your home’s wiring for repairs and further assessments. Electrical issues should only be addressed by a qualified professional to avoid further accidents or damage. Electricians can identify the cause of the electrical emergency and replace parts, rewire circuits, or install GFCIs to prevent accidents from recurring. You may also need a new circuit breaker and smoke detectors to safeguard the home.
Speak to Professional Electricians Today
An electrical emergency calls for professional intervention to prevent accidents and further damage and address the underlying issue. You can consult an electrician to help you assess the emergency and respond safely, like unplugging the power or evacuating the home. Speak to professional electricians today to find out more about their emergency services.
