Electricity powers many essential features in your home. Unfortunately, electricity presents risks, particularly when circuits, cords, and other components are compromised. Below are some tips for handling an electrical emergency and when to call an electrician.

How to Deal With 4 Electrical Emergencies

1. Shocks

Faulty appliances, power line issues, old wiring, and frayed cords can cause shocks. If you see someone touching an item that may be conducting current, don’t touch them. Additionally, stay at least 20 feet away from high-voltage wires.

Turn off the power at the breaker as soon as you can. If you can’t get to it, place an insulated object between the person and the source, like a wooden or PVC pipe. Call 911 if electrocution has occurred.

For future protection, cover outlets and replace frayed cords and damaged appliances. Call an electrician to inspect your wiring at least once a year to catch problems.

2. Outages

An outage can result from a strong storm or an issue with your home’s power lines. Besides being inconvenient, power failures can damage appliances if the power surges.

Check that a breaker hasn’t tripped, and reset circuits if it has. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker, starting with branch circuits before hitting the main breaker.

Call your electrical provider to alert them. When power is restored, turn on the main break first, followed by branches.

As precautions for outages, have battery backups for important items like medical devices, ensure that electronics are plugged into surge protectors, and avoid overloading circuits. Contact an electrician to help redistribute power safely and check the wiring if outages are frequent.

3. Electrical Fire

Anything from a short circuit to a frayed wire coming in contact with a curtain can start a fire. In this case, cut the power from the breaker and call for help.

Use a Class C-rated fire extinguisher if you can’t get to the breaker, as it uses carbon dioxide or dry chemicals to suppress flames. A Class A water-based extinguisher can be used if the power is completely off. You can also smother the fire with a fire blanket, but if the power is still running, your risk of shock is heightened. Then leave quickly and wait for help.

4. Downed Lines

Don’t approach live wires, especially if they’re sparking. Even if the line isn’t active, remain 40 feet away and call the power company immediately. If lines are dangling, watch for items that can create hazards, such as puddles or metal fencing. Avoid trees as well since their water content will conduct electricity.

When you have an electrical emergency and need an electrician, call AA Electric. Serving Honolulu since 1947, the company offers a range of electrical services for residential, industrial, and commercial customers, including repairs, maintenance, lighting installation, and telecommunication cabling. Call (808) 841-4131 for an appointment, or visit them online for a full list of electrical services.