Are You Ready for an Electrical Emergency? Here’s How to Prepare
Hey there! Electrical emergencies have a knack for showing up at the worst possible times, don’t they? One minute you’re enjoying your favorite show, and the next you’re fumbling around in the dark wondering what just happened. I’m from Allied Electric in Prescott, and I want to chat about how you can be better prepared when electrical issues strike your home.
Getting to Know Your Home’s Electrical System
You don’t need to become an electrician overnight, but knowing the basics about your home’s electrical system can be a real lifesaver during an emergency.
Take a few minutes this weekend to locate your electrical panel and check if the circuit breakers are properly labeled. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you don’t have to play the guessing game during an outage! Keep a flashlight nearby so you can actually see the panel if the power goes out.
By the way, if your home is getting up there in years (20+ years old), your electrical system might be struggling to keep up with all your modern gadgets and appliances. It might be worth having us take a look before problems start.
Your Electrical Emergency Toolkit
Having a few key tools ready to go can make all the difference during an electrical issue.
Here’s what I recommend keeping somewhere easy to find:
- A reliable flashlight or battery-powered lantern (check those batteries regularly!)
- A simple voltage tester to check if an outlet is working
- A fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (that’s Class C)
With these basics on hand, you’ll be able to handle minor issues and stay safer while waiting for help with the bigger stuff.
When to Call in the Pros
Look, I’m all for DIY projects, but some electrical issues are just not the time to channel your inner handyman. Here’s when you should definitely give us a call:
- Your circuit breaker keeps tripping over and over
- There’s a burning smell or smoke (this one’s serious – cut the power and call right away)
- You’re getting zapped with little shocks from outlets or appliances
- Your lights are doing a disco impression with all that flickering
- Outlets or appliances feel warm to the touch
When you call Allied Electric, we’ll be there quickly to sort things out safely. That’s a promise.
What to Do When an Emergency Strikes
When you’re in the middle of an electrical emergency, having a mental game plan can help you stay calm and handle things safely.
Here’s what to do:
- Take a deep breath – panicking never fixed a circuit breaker
- If it’s safe to do so, turn off the power at the breaker
- Check the situation – if there’s smoke or fire, get everyone out and call 911
- For smaller issues like a tripped breaker, try resetting it once (but only once – if it trips again, that’s our cue to step in)
- Give us a call if you can’t resolve the issue or if it keeps happening
Prevention: The Best Emergency Plan
After dealing with an electrical emergency, you’ll probably be wondering how to prevent the next one. Regular maintenance is key, especially if you live in an older home or have recently renovated.
Make sure your electrical panel is up to code and can handle all your modern appliances. If your panel is outdated or you keep having issues, it might be time for an upgrade.
Don’t forget about your heating system too especially important for us here in Prescott! Regular heating maintenance reduces the chances of electrical problems when the temperatures drop.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
How do I know if my electrical panel needs an upgrade?
If it’s older than 20 years, trips frequently, or you’ve added power-hungry appliances recently, it’s probably time.
What should I do if I smell something burning?
Don’t take chances – turn off the main breaker immediately. If the smell persists, get everyone out and call 911.
Can I replace an electrical switch myself?
If you’re comfortable with electrical work and are certain the power is off, simple switch replacements are doable. But when in doubt, call us in – that’s what we’re here for.
How often should I have my electrical system checked?
Every few years is a good rule of thumb, more often for older homes or after renovations.
Everyone needs an ally when things go wrong, and that’s exactly what we aim to be at Allied Electric in Prescott. Whether you’re dealing with a minor annoyance or a major electrical issue, we’re just a phone call away. We’ll be there on time, every time – that’s our guarantee to you!
