Picture this: you’re relaxing on the couch during a quiet evening at home, catching up on some TV. Suddenly, a flame leaps from an outlet and an acrid burning smell fills the air — you’ve got an electrical fire on your hands.
In that heart-stopping moment, would you know exactly what to do? Whether you already have a plan about how you’ll handle an electrical emergency or you’ve never considered the subject, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about dealing with common electrical emergencies — straight from our residential and commercial electricians in Little Rock, AR. Let’s get started!
Electrical Fires
Electrical fires are one of the most serious electrical emergencies a homeowner can face. They can occur due to faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or an outdated electrical panel. If you encounter an electrical fire, remain calm and assess the situation, then follow these steps:
- Unplug appliances and turn off the power source at the main circuit breaker, if it is safe to do so.
- Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire, as water conducts electricity and can cause electric shocks. Instead, use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical equipment. Keep these fire extinguishers in accessible locations throughout your home.
- If the electrical fire is beyond your control, evacuate all people and pets from your home immediately and call emergency services.
- Safety should be your top priority in any situation involving electrical fires. Avoid re-entering the property until emergency responders declare that it is safe.
Electrical Shocks
Electrical shocks are another one of the most common electrical emergencies. As its name suggests, electric shock can occur when someone comes into contact with a live electrical source, such as exposed wires or faulty appliances. Taking quick action in these scenarios can prevent life-threatening injuries. To handle electrical emergencies related to shock, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the power source by switching off the main circuit breaker or unplugging the affected appliance.
- Do not touch the person (or the electrical devices) receiving the electric shock, as the electrical current may transfer to you.
- Call emergency services immediately if the person is unresponsive or has severe burns.
Administer first aid only if you are trained to do so, and wait for medical assistance to arrive.
Power Outages
While a power outage can occur for a variety of reasons, the most common cause is also the most dangerous one: downed power lines. Power outages may seem less urgent than other emergencies, but they can still result in contact with potential hazards. Here’s how to protect yourself during a power outage:
- Use your cell phone to stay updated on local news.
- Avoid using plugged-in electrical appliances or touching circuit breakers if you suspect flooding in the affected area.
- Stay clear of downed power lines, as they are extremely dangerous and may still carry an electrical current that can result in fatal electrical shock. If you see a fallen power line, alert local authorities and ensure others steer clear.
- Contact your utility company or emergency services provider and report the issue immediately.
Once the power is back on, you aren’t in the clear just yet. If you suspect your electrical system has been damaged by the power outage, the outage took place over a sustained period of time, or water damage was involved, we recommend consulting with a licensed electrician for a thorough inspection. We can check for problems after power failures and ensure that an underlying electrical issue won’t pop up later down the line.
How to Reduce the Chance of Electrical Emergencies
While some problems with your electrical system seem to pop up out of nowhere, handling electrical emergencies is a lot easier if you have the right tools.
Start by familiarizing yourself with your home’s fuse box and main circuit breaker, so you know how to turn off the power in an affected area during electrical emergencies. Next, equip your home with essentials like a battery-powered radio, a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires, and a first aid kit. These preventive measures can be lifesaving during unexpected events. Finally, have professionals regularly inspect your electrical system for signs of wear and tear and perform electrical repair in Little Rock as needed.
Here are some more general safety tips you can employ to reduce the likelihood of an electrical emergency:
Avoid Overloading Circuits
Distribute the use of electrical appliances across different outlets to prevent overloaded circuits. Using too many high-demand devices on a single circuit can lead to tripped breakers and electrical fires.
Inspect Electrical Outlets and Devices
Regularly check electrical outlets, plugs, and electrical devices for signs of damage, such as discoloration, burning smells, or frayed wires. Replace damaged items immediately to eliminate potential hazards.
Replace Outdated Electrical Panels
Older homes often have outdated electrical panels that are ill-equipped to handle modern energy demands. Upgrading to a new electrical panel can improve safety and efficiency.
Unplug Appliances When Not in Use
For both safety and energy conservation, unplug electrical appliances that aren’t in use. This practice protects against power surges during power failures and reduces the risk of faulty appliances causing damage.
Practice Proper Extension Cord Use
Extension cords are temporary solutions, not permanent fixes. Avoid running cords under rugs or through conductive materials, as this can lead to electrical shocks or fires.
Keep Water and Electricity Separate
Water is highly conductive, making it extremely dangerous around live wires or electrical equipment. Never handle electrical devices with wet hands, and address any water exposure to outlets immediately.
Install Surge Protectors
Protect sensitive electronic devices like computers and televisions by using surge protectors. These devices can safeguard against damage from power surges after power outages or storms.
Hire Professional Electricians for Repairs
Avoid DIY electrical fixes. Only a licensed electrician can identify and repair faulty wiring, replace damaged electrical systems.
When to Call for Professional Help
Some emergencies involving your home’s electrical systems require the prompt assistance of a professional electrician. Signs that you need an emergency electrician include:
- Persistent electrical issues, like frequently tripping circuit breakers, sparking outlets, or switches that are hot to the touch
- Visible damage, such as frayed wires, faulty appliances, or outdated electrical panels
- Visible burn marks or a burning smell near electrical outlets
- Faulty wiring or damaged electrical equipment after a storm or flood
Staley Electric offers emergency assistance for homeowners facing these critical situations. Your electrical safety is our top priority, and you can depend on our team to address immediate threats while preventing further damage. Whether you’re struggling with electrical panel damage, flickering lights, or tripped breakers, we are here to help.
Prioritize Safety with Staley Electric
From fires and circuit breaker trips to electric shocks and fallen power lines, electrical emergencies are unpredictable and can be life-threatening. But by learning how to handle an electrical emergency, taking preventive measures to mitigate immediate danger, and seeking help from professional electricians when needed, homeowners can protect themselves from both physical harm and property damage.
Are you dealing with an electrical safety issue? Staley Electric is here to help with reliable services. Don’t wait for an issue with your electrical system to escalate into an immediate threat — contact a licensed electrician on our team for expert guidance and assistance today!
