What to Do in an Electrical Emergency Before the Electrician Arrives

Electrical emergencies can be scary—and dangerous. Whether it’s a sudden power outage, sparking wires, or a burning smell coming from an outlet, knowing how to react quickly (and safely) can make all the difference. While you should always call a licensed electrician to handle serious electrical issues, there are a few important steps you can take to protect yourself and your property before help arrives.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First things first: don’t panic. Quickly identify the type of electrical emergency you’re dealing with. Is it:

• A power outage in part of the house?
• Sparking wires or outlets?
• A burning smell or signs of smoke?
• Flickering lights or electrical buzzing sounds?

Understanding what’s happening helps you communicate clearly with your electrician and determine whether immediate action is needed.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power and Unplug Sensitive Electronics (If Safe to Do So)

If you see sparks, smoke, or smell something burning, turn off the power at the breaker box immediately, but only if it’s safe to access. Don’t touch anything that looks damaged or wet. If you’re experiencing power surges or flickering lights but no active fire or sparking, unplug high-value electronics (like TVs, computers, or appliances) to protect them from damage while you wait for professional help.

Step 3: Avoid Water and Stay Away From Wires

If you suspect a short circuit or an outlet is wet (e.g., after a flood or leak), keep away from any electrical components. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and stepping into a wet area with exposed wiring could cause electric shock.

Step 4: Keep Your Distance

If there’s visible arcing (sparks), smoke, or signs of fire, evacuate the area and call emergency services. Don’t try to put out an electrical fire with water—use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires if available, or wait for the professionals.

Step 5: Call a Licensed Electrician Immediately

Once you’ve secured your safety, call a qualified, licensed electrician to assess and repair the issue. Describe the symptoms in detail so they can prioritize your call appropriately.

Common Electrical Emergencies and Warning Signs

Electrical emergencies can show up in many different ways—some more obvious than others. Knowing the early warning signs can help you act quickly and avoid bigger dangers. Here are some common red flags to watch for:

• Burning Smell or Smoke: If you notice a plastic or fishy odor coming from an outlet or appliance, it could mean wiring is overheating—a serious fire risk.
• Sparking or Arcing Wires: Sparks coming from outlets, light switches, or exposed wiring are a clear danger and should be dealt with immediately.
• Buzzing or Crackling Sounds: Your outlets and switches should be silent. Unusual sounds may indicate faulty wiring or loose connections.
• Flickering or Dimming Lights: While this can be a simple bulb issue, frequent flickering could suggest a problem with your circuit or electrical panel.
• Tripped Circuit Breakers: Occasional trips are normal, but repeated or unexplained trips might signal an overload or short circuit.
• Exposed Wires: Damaged cords or visible wiring—especially if near water—can pose a severe risk of electric shock.

When to Call 911 vs an Emergency Electrician

In the middle of an electrical issue, it can be hard to know whether to call 911 or your electrician—but knowing the difference could save lives. If you see flames, smoke, or fire coming from any electrical source, your first move should be to evacuate and call 911. This also applies if someone has received an electric shock or if there’s visible damage to power lines or infrastructure, especially after a storm. These situations require emergency services to secure the area before any repairs can be safely made. For other, less urgent problems—such as frequent breaker trips, buzzing outlets, flickering lights, or a burning smell without active fire—it’s best to call a licensed electrician. An electrician can safely assess the problem, make repairs, and help prevent further risks. When in doubt, always prioritize your safety, and don’t hesitate to call for help.

Need Immediate Electrical Emergency Help in Calgary?

Electrical emergencies aren’t something to take lightly—but knowing how to respond can help minimize risk until help arrives. Always prioritize safety over troubleshooting. The best thing you can do? Contact the professionals and let them handle the rest. At Gravity Electrical Solutions, our licensed electricians are available 24/7 to ensure your safety and restore peace of mind.​ Having quick access to our information can make all the difference when every second counts.

Call us now at 403-879-2345
Email: [email protected]

Whether it’s a sudden power outage, sparking wires, or any other urgent electrical issue, trust Gravity Electrical Solutions to handle it promptly and professionally.