Electrical Emergency Tips: What to Do When Things Go Wrong

​Electrical emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and knowing what to do in these situations can make a big difference in keeping you and your family safe. Whether it’s a power outage, an electrical fire, or a shock, understanding how to respond quickly and effectively is crucial. In this blog, we’ll share some essential tips for handling electrical emergencies and what steps you can take to minimize risks and ensure everyone stays safe.

​Recognizing Common Electrical Emergencies

​Before diving into specific tips, it’s important to understand what constitutes an electrical emergency. Here are a few common scenarios:

• Power Outages: While not always an emergency, a power outage can become serious if it’s prolonged or caused by a storm or other damage to the electrical grid.
• Electrical Fires: Sparks, smoke, or burning smells coming from outlets, switches, or appliances are clear signs of an electrical fire, which requires immediate action.
• Electrical Shocks: If someone receives an electrical shock, especially from a high-voltage source, it’s critical to act quickly to prevent further injury.
• Downed Power Lines: Downed power lines are extremely dangerous and can pose a severe risk of electrocution or fire.

​What to Do During a Power Outage

Power outages can happen for various reasons, from weather events to utility maintenance. Here’s what you should do if the power goes out:

• Check Your Circuit Breaker: Sometimes, a power outage is isolated to your home and caused by a tripped circuit breaker. Check your breaker panel to see if any breakers have flipped and reset them if necessary.
• Use Flashlights, Not Candles: For safety, use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns instead of candles to avoid the risk of fire.
• Unplug Appliances: Unplug any sensitive electronics and appliances to protect them from potential power surges when the electricity is restored.
• Stay Informed: If the outage affects your entire neighborhood, listen to a battery-powered radio or use your smartphone to stay updated on the situation and any safety instructions from local authorities.

​How to Handle an Electrical Fire

​Electrical fires can be scary, but knowing how to respond can help prevent injury and minimize damage:

• Cut the Power: If it’s safe to do so, turn off the power to the affected area using your breaker panel. This can help stop the fire from spreading and reduce the risk of electric shock.
• Use a Fire Extinguisher: Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire, as it can conduct electricity and cause shock. Instead, use a Class C fire extinguisher specifically designed for electrical fires.
• Evacuate and Call 911: If the fire is out of control or you’re unable to cut the power, evacuate your home immediately and call 911 for help. Do not try to fight a large fire on your own.

​Responding to Electrical Shocks

If someone receives an electrical shock, it’s crucial to act quickly:

• Do Not Touch the Person: If the person is still in contact with the electrical source, do not touch them, or you could become part of the electrical circuit.
• Turn Off the Power: If possible, cut the power to the source of the shock using the breaker panel or unplugging the device. If you can’t turn off the power safely, use a non-conductive object like a wooden broom handle to separate the person from the electrical source.
• Call for Help: Call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even if the person appears unharmed, they may have internal injuries or burns that require professional evaluation.

​What to Do About Downed Power Lines

​Downed power lines are extremely dangerous and should always be treated with caution:

• Stay Far Away: Keep at least 30 feet away from downed power lines and anything they are touching, such as fences or puddles, which can conduct electricity.
• Do Not Touch Anything: Do not attempt to move or touch the power lines. Even if they appear inactive, they could still be live and deadly.
• Call 911 and the Utility Company: Report the downed power line to emergency services and your local utility company immediately. They have the tools and expertise to handle the situation safely.

​Preventing Electrical Emergencies

​While it’s important to know how to respond to electrical emergencies, prevention is the best strategy. Here are a few tips to help you avoid electrical hazards:

• Regular Inspections: Have a licensed electrician inspect your home’s electrical system regularly to identify and address potential issues before they become emergencies.
• Avoid Overloading Circuits: Don’t overload outlets or circuits with too many devices, as this can lead to overheating and potential fires.
• Use Surge Protectors: Protect your electronics and appliances from power surges with surge protectors, especially during storms.
• Educate Your Family: Make sure everyone in your household knows how to safely respond to electrical emergencies and where the breaker panel is located.

​Conclusion:

Electrical emergencies can be frightening, but knowing what to do can help you stay calm and act quickly to keep your family safe. Whether it’s a power outage, an electrical fire, a shock, or a downed power line, being prepared and understanding the right steps to take can make all the difference. If you have any concerns about your home’s electrical safety or want to schedule an inspection, we’re here to help. Contact us today to ensure your home is safe and ready for any situation.

Want to make sure your home is prepared for electrical emergencies? Contact Skyline Electric today for a professional inspection and expert advice on keeping your family safe!