Home Electrical Emergency Preparedness Plan
Be prepared for electrical emergencies.
Prevent Electrical Emergencies
- Inspect cords, outlets, and appliances for damage.
- Don’t overload plugs, outlets or power strips.
- Keep electrical items away from water.
- Install and test smoke alarms, CO detectors, and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs).
- Know the location of your main electrical panel and junction boxes.
In an Electrical Shock Emergency
- Do NOT touch the person if they’re still in contact with electricity.
- Shut off power only if safe.
- Call 112 or 999 immediately.
- Give first aid only after the person is free from the electrical source.
In an Electrical Fire
- Call 112 or 999 right away.
- Cut power or unplug the device only if safe.
- Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire - use a Class C fire extinguisher.
- Evacuate if the fire spreads or the smoke intensifies.
Power Outage
- Use flashlights, not candles.
- Unplug sensitive devices.
- Check your breaker panel—reset tripped breakers only if safe and dry.
- Contact your utility company for outage updates.
- Use NI Networks' PowerCheck for outage updates.
Burning Smell, Sparks, or Smoke
- Turn off the breaker to the affected area if safe.
- Unplug devices only if safe.
- Leave the area if fire risk increases.
- Call a licensed electrician immediately.
Flooding Near Electrical Outlets or Panel
- Avoid standing water.
- Do not touch the electrical panel.
- Call your utility provider or emergency electrician.
Be Prepared
- Keep a Class C fire extinguisher accessible.
- Store flashlights and batteries in known locations.
- Keep emergency numbers visible (112 / 999, utility company, electrician).
- Maintain a simple home evacuation plan.
After Any Electrical Incident
- Do not reuse damaged outlets, devices, or cords.
- Have a licensed electrician inspect affected areas.
- Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and check for existing fire alarm expiry dates.