Electrical emergencies do not wait for a convenient time. They can leave you in the dark and put your home at risk, so knowing what to do when the lights go out keeps you safe and gets the power back on sooner. Here is how to handle it.
Stay calm, then check the circuit breaker
Panicking leads to hasty decisions that can make the situation worse. Take a deep breath and assess it calmly.
A tripped circuit breaker is a common cause of a power outage. Find your breaker panel and check whether any switches have flipped to the off position. Resetting the breaker may restore power. If the breaker trips again immediately, there may be an underlying issue that needs professional attention.
Look for damage, and do not touch it
Check for visible signs of electrical damage: frayed wires, scorch marks around outlets, or a burnt smell. Do not touch or attempt to repair damaged wiring or appliances. Contact a licensed electrician immediately.
If the outage is due to a flood or water leaking near electrical outlets or appliances, stay away from the affected area. Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Shut off the main power supply if it is safe to do so, and call an electrician.
Protect your appliances and light the house safely
Unplug sensitive electronics and appliances so a surge does not damage them when the electricity is restored. This protects your devices from voltage spikes and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
Use torches or battery-operated lanterns for light. Avoid candles. They are a fire hazard, particularly if they are left unattended.
When to call an electrician
If you cannot identify the cause of the outage, or if there is visible damage, contact a licensed electrician immediately. Electrical issues can be complex and dangerous, and they need professional expertise to resolve safely.
Get a kit together before you need it
Keep an emergency kit with essentials like torches, batteries, a battery-operated radio and a list of emergency contacts, including your electrician. Being prepared makes a significant difference during an electrical emergency.
M&J Electrical Works can get to the bottom of urgent electrical problems with proper fault finding. Call us if you have an electrical emergency and our team will restore your power safely.
