How to Handle Electrical Emergencies in Charlotte NC

This guide explains how to handle electrical emergencies in Charlotte, NC. If you notice sparks, burning smells, frequent breaker trips, or electrical shocks, act immediately. Knowing what steps to take can prevent costly damage and keep you safe.

Here’s what to do in an emergency:

Call (704) 804-3320 if you have any questions or need immediate electrical assistance in Charlotte, NC.

1. Call Our Licensed Electrician Immediately

When an electrical emergency occurs, your first step should be to call a licensed electrician immediately. Electrical hazards can escalate quickly, leading to fires, power failures, or even life-threatening situations. Delaying professional help puts your home, business, and safety at risk.

At Ewing Electric Co., we provide fast, reliable emergency electrical services in Charlotte, NC. Whether you’re dealing with a power outage, sparking outlets, a burning smell, or a faulty electrical panel, our expert electricians respond quickly to keep you safe.

Why Calling Us First is Critical

⚡ Faster Response, Less Damage – Electrical problems worsen over time. Our team arrives promptly to prevent costly repairs and reduce risks.

⚡ Licensed & Highly Trained Electricians – We only send fully certified professionals to handle your emergency, ensuring safe and code-compliant repairs (NC Electrical License #36335).

⚡ Same-Day Repairs & Upfront Pricing – We diagnose and fix issues fast, providing clear, honest pricing without unnecessary upsells.

⚡ 24/7 Emergency Service – Electrical emergencies don’t wait. Neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to restore safety to your home or business.

⚡ 5-Star Rated Service – Homeowners trust us for quick response times, quality repairs, and excellent customer service.

Call Ewing Electric Co. at (704) 804-3320 and get expert help immediately.

An emergency electrical situation in a home or business, showing a sparking circuit breaker panel and a fire extinguisher, emphasizing the need for immediate action during an electrical emergency in Charlotte, NC.

2. Turn Off the Power Immediately

Shutt off power at the main electrical panel to stop an electrical emergency from escalating. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Locate Your Main Circuit Breaker Panel: It is found in basements, garages, utility rooms, or outdoor meter boxes.
  • Turn Off the Main Breaker Switch: If an appliance is sparking or you see smoke, switch off the main breaker before inspecting the issue.
  • Do Not Touch the Panel If You See Sparks or Smoke. If the panel is damaged or has signs of burning, leave the area immediately and call emergency services.
  • Shut Off Individual Circuit Breakers If Needed: If you know which circuit is affected, you may be able to turn off only that breaker instead of shutting down the entire house.

3. Unplug Appliances to Prevent Further Damage

Unplug the appliances to prevent additional damage once you have turned off the power. Faulty appliances can cause short circuits or fires even after the initial emergency is addressed.

  • Unplug All Electrical Devices From Outlets: If an appliance is smoking or sparking, remove the plug only if it is safe.
  • Check Cords for Damage: Frayed, melted, or exposed wires can be fire hazards. Do not use any damaged appliance until it has been repaired or replaced.
  • Use a Surge Protector for Sensitive Electronics: This can prevent damage from voltage fluctuations once power is restored.

4. Avoid Water Contact Near Electrical Sources

Water and electricity create a life-threatening combination. During an emergency, avoid any interaction between electrical systems and water.

  • Never Touch Electrical Equipment With Wet Hands: Even small amounts of moisture can lead to electrocution.
  • Avoid Walking Through Flooded Areas With Electrical Wiring: Floodwater may contain live electrical currents if submerged outlets, power strips, or appliances are present.
  • Turn Off Power Immediately If Water Is Leaking Near Electrical Equipment: Shut off electricity from the main panel before attempting to stop the leak or clean up the area.
  • Use GFCI Outlets in High-Moisture Areas: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) help prevent shocks and cut off power if water exposure occurs.

5. Use the Right Fire Extinguisher for Electrical Fires

If an electrical fire starts, using the correct fire extinguisher can prevent injuries and stop the fire from spreading.

  • Use a Class C Fire Extinguisher: CO2 and dry powder extinguishers are the safest options for electrical fires.
  • Never Use Water to Extinguish Electrical Fires: Water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution or make the fire worse.
  • Smother Small Fires With Baking Soda: If the fire is small and contained, baking soda can help suffocate the flames.
  • Turn Off Power Before Attempting to Extinguish the Fire: This reduces the risk of electrical shock while putting out the flames.
  • Evacuate Immediately if the Fire is Spreading: If you cannot control the fire, leave the area and call 911.

6. Call 911 If Someone Suffers an Electrical Shock

Electrical shocks can cause burns, muscle contractions, breathing difficulties, and heart failure. If someone is electrocuted, follow these steps:

  • Do Not Touch the Person Directly: Electricity may still run through them, and you could also be shocked.
  • Turn Off Power Before Providing Assistance: Shut off the power supply at the circuit breaker or unplug the appliance causing the shock.
  • Use a Non-Conductive Object to Move the Person Away From the Source: A dry wooden broom handle, rubber gloves, or a non-metallic cloth can separate them from the electrical source.
  • Check for Breathing and Pulse: If the victim is unconscious and not breathing, begin CPR immediately while waiting for emergency responders.
  • Call 911 Immediately: Even if the person appears fine, electrical injuries can cause hidden internal damage.

7. Evacuate the Area If You Smell Burning Wires

A burning smell near electrical outlets, appliances, or circuit panels could mean wires are overheating and may catch fire. Act immediately:

  • Turn Off the Main Power Supply: If safe, shut off power at the breaker panel to prevent further overheating.
  • Do Not Use Water to Extinguish Sparks or Smoke: Water can worsen the situation. Use a Class C fire extinguisher instead.
  • Evacuate If the Smell Persists or Smoke Is Visible: A hidden fire may be burning inside walls or electrical panels. Leave the area and call the fire department.
  • Contact an Electrician for Inspection: Even if the smell disappears, you should have a professional check your electrical system for underlying issues.

8. Schedule an Inspection After an Electrical Emergency

Once the immediate danger has passed, a professional inspection ensures your electrical system is safe and prevents future hazards.

  • Hire a Licensed Electrician to Assess the Damage: An expert can check for faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and other risks.
  • Check Circuit Breakers and Wiring for Signs of Overheating: Burn marks, melted insulation, or discoloration indicate potential hazards.
  • Test Outlets and Appliances Before Reuse: Electrical surges or fire damage may affect the safety of your devices.
  • Upgrade Aging or Outdated Electrical Systems: Older homes with aluminum wiring or insufficient electrical capacity should be upgraded to modern safety standards.

9. Take Preventative Safety Measures

Preventing electrical emergencies starts with regular maintenance and proper safety practices. Consider the following steps:

  • Use Surge Protectors to Protect Electronics: Prevent damage from sudden power surges or outages.
  • Install GFCI Outlets in Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Outdoor Areas: These outlets shut off power instantly when they detect electrical imbalances.
  • Check and Replace Damaged Cords and Plugs: Frayed wires, loose connections, and exposed wiring should be repaired or replaced.
  • Avoid Overloading Outlets: Plugging too many devices into one outlet increases the risk of overheating and fire.
  • Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Regularly: These devices provide early warnings in case of electrical fires or gas leaks.
  • Schedule Routine Electrical Inspections: Having a licensed electrician inspect your home every few years helps identify potential hazards before they become emergencies.

FAQs

The first step in an electrical emergency is to turn off the power at the main circuit breaker if it is safe. This helps prevent further damage, electrical shocks, or fires.

An electrical emergency includes sparking outlets, burning smells, exposed wires, frequent breaker trips, power outages, or electrical shocks. These issues pose immediate safety risks and require urgent attention.

Call an emergency electrician if you experience smoke, sparks, burning odors, power failures, buzzing outlets, or repeated breaker trips. These signs indicate serious electrical hazards that need professional intervention.