What Is Considered an Electrical Emergency?
Our lives would be drastically different without access to electricity. Whether you are styling your hair, using your laptop, or heating leftovers for dinner, you undoubtedly use and interact with electric-powered devices all day, every day. With all this power usage, electrical emergencies can pop up from time to time.
Electrical emergencies are situations where electrical systems fail and pose major risks, such as electrocution, injuries, or electrical fires. Although emergencies from electrical problems are uncommon, they can occur quite rapidly, day or night. This is why you need to know how to identify them and who to call—whether that’s a service call for emergency electrician services or to other local authorities. In this blog, we discuss the six major electrical emergencies and who to call if you find yourself in one.
Power Outages
Power outages occur when your home, or part of your home, loses electrical power. They can be caused by storms, overloaded outlets, or a problem with your electrical panel. If you find yourself in the middle of a power outage, the first thing to do is determine if the outage is in your entire neighbourhood or isolated to your home. Outages in the entire neighbourhood are usually fixed by the electrical company. However, if the outage is specific to your home, you should contact a residential electrician to perform an electrical inspection to diagnose the issue.
Electrical Fires
Electrical fires can also be caused by overloaded circuits or issues with your electrical panel. However, unlike power outages, which can be tolerated for some time, electrical fires are dangerous situations that require you to react within mere seconds of detecting the fire. If you experience an electrical fire in your home, disconnect the power from the electric source via your circuit breaker panel if it is possible and safe to do so. Then immediately call 9-1-1 and report the fire. Once the authorities have successfully put out the fire, call an electrician to inspect the damage and perform any required electrical repairs.
Burnt Outlet
If you ever see burn marks on your outlet, it is likely the result of an overloaded circuit that has become progressively hotter to the point of burning. This is especially common in older homes without updated wiring. Burnt outlets are emergencies that can give rise to electrical fires, so if you notice one in your home, call a highly trained master electrician immediately.
Electric Shock
Electric shocks occur when people accidentally come into contact with electricity, often due to frayed wires or damaged outlets. Electric shock can quickly become a dangerous situation. If you witness someone experiencing an electric shock, immediately call 9-1-1 for 24-hour emergency medical services. Afterward, it is crucial to call professional electrical services to get your electric system inspected and repaired to prevent future shocks.
Circuit Breaker Failure
Circuit breakers are essential in your home because they ensure that your circuits don’t overload, preventing further electrical emergencies. However, sometimes, a circuit breaker can fail due to heat or excessive use. If this happens, your home is more susceptible to other problems ranging from power outages to electric shocks. If you notice that tripped circuits are becoming a frequent occurrence in your household, call your local electrician for an inspection.
Fallen Power Lines
When you see a fallen power line, do not approach it. Power lines that fall to the ground after a storm or other disturbance are dangerous because they can carry strong electrical currents. If you see a downed power line, call your local authorities right away, as well as an electrical company, while maintaining your distance for safety.
Prevent Electrical Emergencies By Calling Your Local Master Electricians For an Electrical Inspection Today
Regular inspections are a great way to make sure your home electrical system is up to date and free of hazards that give rise to electrical emergencies. MMi Electrical offers residential services, including inspections, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our priority is your safety, and we are happy to ensure your home is wired to code. Contact us today if you’re looking to inquire about electrical services in St. Albert, Edmonton, or any of the surrounding areas.