Molly Ayala
Electrical emergencies can be frightening and dangerous, and it is important to know who to call to ensure your safety. If there is a fire, smoking, or burning, you should call the local fire department immediately. In the event of a serious electrical shock, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. If you are unsure of the root cause of the electrical problem, you can call the power company for advice and to determine if you need an electrician. If you experience a power outage, you should contact your electricity supplier, and if you see sparks, flames, burning smells, or exposed wires, you should call a licensed electrician immediately.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| If there is a power cut | 105 |
| If there is a domestic power cut or concern with distribution infrastructure | 105 |
| If there is a potential hazard on or near a transmission overhead electricity line | 0800 40 40 90 |
| If there is a downed power line | 911 |
| If there is a downed power line in contact with a vehicle | 911 |
| If there is a smell of gas | 1-800-892-2345 or 911 |
| If there is a safety concern with your meter, piping, or equipment | 1-800-892-2345 or 911 |
| If there is a power outage | 1-800-867-5222 |
| If there is a downed powerline and you are a PG&E customer | Report it to PG&E |
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What You'll Learn
Call 911 for fire, smoke, or burning
If you see a fire, smoke, or burning, it is important to call 911 immediately. This includes electrical fires, which can be extremely dangerous. If you are experiencing an electrical fire, do not throw water on it as this can be deadly. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or baking soda to smother the flames. Remember to evacuate the building immediately and call for help from a safe location.
When reporting an electrical fire or any other electric emergency, it is crucial to provide the emergency services with the exact location. This helps them respond swiftly and efficiently. If the emergency is on private property, specify whether it is at the front, side, or rear of the building. Additionally, inform them about the nature of the emergency and whether anyone is injured or in danger.
In the case of a downed power line, it is vital to stay at least 25 to 30 feet away and call 911 immediately. Assume that any downed or low-hanging power line is energized and dangerous, even if it is not sparking, smoking, or making any noise. Warn others to stay away as well, as these situations can be hazardous for bystanders, first responders, and those attempting to help.
If a vehicle is in contact with a downed power line, instruct the occupants to remain inside the vehicle until electric utility workers arrive and notify them that it is safe to exit. If they must exit due to a fire or other imminent danger, advise them not to touch the vehicle and the ground simultaneously. Instead, they should jump clear, land with their feet together, and then shuffle at least 30 feet away while keeping their feet off the ground as much as possible.
Remember, in any situation involving fire, smoke, or burning, your first call should be to 911. They are equipped to handle these emergencies and will be able to provide the necessary assistance and guidance.
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Call an electrician for loose sockets, switches, or outlets
If you notice any loose sockets, switches, or outlets, it is important to address the issue promptly to ensure your safety and prevent further problems. While you may be tempted to fix it yourself, it is always best to call a licensed electrician, especially if you feel uncomfortable or unequipped to handle the task.
Electricians are trained professionals who can properly diagnose and repair electrical issues. They have the knowledge and expertise to identify any underlying problems and ensure that your electrical system is safe and up to code. Trying to fix electrical issues without professional knowledge can be dangerous and may lead to further complications.
Before calling an electrician, you can perform some initial checks to identify the problem. First, ensure that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If it has, try flipping the breaker in the opposite direction and then back again to the correct position. If this does not resolve the issue, the problem may lie with the outlet itself.
Loose sockets, switches, or outlets can be a fire hazard and should be addressed as soon as possible. In some cases, the issue may be as simple as a plug that needs to be replaced or a GFCI outlet that needs to be reset. However, if there is any damage beyond a simple loose connection, it is always best to seek professional help.
When choosing an electrician, look for a licensed professional with experience in outlet repair, installation, and inspection. They should be able to provide you with a proper assessment and recommend any necessary repairs or replacements. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your electrical system is safe and well-maintained.
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Call an electrician for frequent tripping of circuit breakers
If your circuit breaker keeps tripping, it could be due to a few reasons. Firstly, it could be due to an overload, which occurs when too many appliances or devices are plugged into a single circuit, causing an excessive amount of electricity to flow through the breaker. Secondly, it could be caused by a short circuit, which happens when a hot or active electrical wire comes into contact with a neutral wire, resulting in a large amount of current flowing and overloading the circuit. Short circuits can also be caused by damaged wires, such as those chewed on by animals, faulty electrical switches, receptacles, fixtures, appliances, plugs, or cords. Lastly, a ground fault could be the culprit, which takes place when the "hot" wire touches the ground wire or another surface, causing the breaker to trip.
While occasional tripping of a circuit breaker is not uncommon and may not be cause for immediate alarm, frequent tripping could indicate an underlying issue. If you suspect that your circuit breaker is tripping too often, it is recommended to take some initial steps to identify and resolve the problem. Start by investigating the area of your house controlled by the tripped breaker and turn off and unplug all devices and appliances in that area. Then, reset the breaker and observe if it trips again. If it does, it suggests a potential short circuit or a problem with the wiring. If the breaker holds, start plugging things back in one by one and observe when the breaker trips to identify which appliance or device might be causing the issue.
However, if the issue persists or you are unable to identify the source of the problem, it is highly recommended to call a licensed electrician. They have the expertise and equipment to safely diagnose and resolve electrical issues. Electricians can test for short circuits, overloaded circuits, and ground faults, and they can also inspect your electrical panel for any undersized, damaged, or aging breakers that may need replacement. Additionally, if you notice any signs of burning, scorch marks, or a persistent burning smell, it is crucial to contact a professional electrician immediately as it could indicate a fire hazard.
In summary, while some circuit breaker tripping issues may be resolved through simple troubleshooting, frequent tripping warrants the attention of a licensed electrician. They can provide peace of mind by ensuring your electrical system is safe and functioning properly, reducing the risk of electrical fires and shocks.
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Call an electrician for electrical sparks or flames
If you see sparks or flames coming from electrical outlets, wiring, or appliances, you should not waste any time. If possible, turn off the power supply and contact an electrician immediately. Sparks and flames can quickly turn into a major fire. While waiting for the electrician, keep a safe distance from any electrical equipment or areas exhibiting sparks or signs of fire. Also, refrain from using electrical devices and outlets in the affected area to prevent further damage.
If you feel threatened by a potential electrical concern, call the fire department. They are there to protect you, and it is better to be a false alarm than to have your home catch fire.
If you experience a power cut, you should call 105 to be put through to your distribution network operator. Do not call your electricity supplier, as they are not responsible for power lines.
If you see or suspect a downed power line, stay at least 25 feet away and call 911 immediately.
To summarise, call an electrician for electrical sparks or flames. However, if you feel threatened or endangered, do not hesitate to call the fire department.
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Call the power company for a power outage
If you experience a power outage, you should contact your utility company as soon as possible. Utility companies are responsible for maintaining the lines, poles, and meters that bring electricity to your home or business, so they are the best point of contact in the event of a power outage.
You can usually report a power outage to your utility company via an online form on their website, or by phone. If you choose to call, most utility companies will have a special number to report power outages, which you can find on their website.
In some cases, you may be able to sign up for alerts to check for outages in your area, and your utility company may be able to give you a timeframe for when your power will be restored.
If you see a downed power line, stay at least 25 to 30 feet away and call 911 immediately. You should also call 911 if you see a tree that is growing too close to a power line, or if your vehicle is in contact with a power line.
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Frequently asked questions
Call 911 and then call DTE's 24-hour hotline at (800) 477-4747.
Call your local fire department or emergency services immediately.
First, contact your electricity supplier. If they can't help, call a licensed electrician or electrical installation company.
Call emergency electrical services. If you experience a serious electrical shock, immediately call 911 for emergency medical personnel.
