An electrical emergency is any situation where electricity creates an immediate risk of fire, shock or injury, such as smoke, repeated sparking, a burning smell or exposed live wiring. If there is fire, smoke, a downed power line or an injured person, leave the area and call 911 before anything else.
Many other electrical problems are frustrating but can safely wait for a scheduled visit. Knowing the difference helps you respond calmly and quickly.
Signs That May Point to Immediate Danger
Some warning signs call for fast action. These include smoke or a burning plastic smell coming from an outlet, switch, panel or appliance; sparks that keep happening; outlets, switches or cover plates that are hot to the touch; buzzing or crackling from the electrical panel; and wiring that is exposed, melted or damaged.
Water and electricity together are another serious concern. Flooding near outlets, a leak dripping onto a light fixture or panel, or equipment that has been under water should be treated as hazardous until it has been checked. Stay out of standing water that may be in contact with electrical equipment.
When to Call 911 or the Utility First
An electrician is not a substitute for emergency responders. Call 911 for any active fire, heavy smoke, a person who has received a serious shock, or anyone who is injured. Do not touch a person who may still be in contact with a live electrical source.
Downed power lines are handled by the utility. In Salt Lake City and much of Utah, Rocky Mountain Power advises staying at least 35 feet away from a fallen line, calling 911, and then reporting it to the utility at 1-888-221-7070. Treat every downed line as energized, even if it is not sparking.
Urgent Problems That Are Not Always Emergencies
A breaker that trips once, a single outlet that stops working, or lights that flicker now and then are usually not emergencies on their own. They still deserve attention, especially if they keep happening or come with heat, odors or unusual sounds. Losing power in part of the home while the rest still works can also point to a problem that should be checked soon.
Symptoms alone do not prove the exact cause. A burning smell could come from an overheating device, a failing appliance or wiring inside a wall. A qualified electrician needs to evaluate the system to find out what is actually happening.
What to Do While You Wait for Help
If it is safe, stop using the affected outlet, appliance or circuit, and keep people and pets away. Do not open the electrical panel, remove cover plates or try to repair anything yourself, since parts can stay energized even when something looks off.
Once responders have made the scene safe, or if the problem is serious but not life-threatening, our emergency electrical services in Salt Lake City can help assess the damage and explain what needs to be fixed before the affected circuits are used again.