Did you know that the average American household uses about 900 kWh of electricity per month? That’s making them reliant on electrical systems. When there’s a power outage, it affects not only homes but also the wider community.
How can you make sure your family and neighbors are safe in an emergency? A sudden blackout is no laughing matter, especially if you have young children or elderly parents living with you.
If you’re worried about an electricity emergency in your area, keep reading to learn all about it and what you should do if it occurs in your community.
What Is an Electricity Emergency?
An electricity emergency is a power outage that lasts for more than a few hours or an electrical hazard. Severe weather, accidents, downed power lines, or other electricity problems can cause power outages. Electrical hazards can be caused by damaged wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty electrical equipment.
If you experience a power outage or an electrical hazard, call your local utility company right away. If you have a medical condition that requires electricity, such as a respirator, call 911.
What Causes Electrical Emergencies?
Many things can cause an electrical emergency. Some of the most common causes are:
- Severe weather
- Downed power line
- Faulty wiring
- Overloaded circuits
- Damaged electrical equipment
If you experience any of these problems, it is important to call for help right away. A qualified electrician can assess the situation and make any necessary repairs for electrical systems to prevent further damage and keep everyone safe.
Types of Electricity Emergencies
Many types of electricity emergencies can occur, from power outages to downed power lines. Here are some of the most common types of electricity emergencies:
Power Outage
A power outage, or electricity emergency, occurs when the electrical power to a home or business is interrupted or shut off for an unknown period. An electrical storm, downed power lines, an overload of the system, or a system malfunction can cause it.
The primary concern in any power outage situation is “Lights Out.” The lack of lights can create a hazardous environment, especially at night. It is advised to keep flashlights and fresh batteries on hand in case of power outages.
During power goes out suddenly, the safety of individuals should take precedence. It should secure doors and windows until the lights come back on.
To ensure a safe environment, homeowners should never use candles or open fires during a power outage. In the event of an electricity emergency, it is best to stay indoors and await instructions from authorities.
Downed Power Line
With electricity emergencies caused by downed power lines, it’s essential to know what makes up a genuine emergency. An emergency is defined as a situation that poses a risk to a person’s life, health, or safety. In terms of a downed power line, a genuine emergency exists when the line has caught fire, is sparking, or is lying across a roadway.
In these situations, the public and anyone within immediate range are at risk and should stay away from the area. Additionally, all persons should exercise caution by switching to a backup power source and immediately turning off all appliances connected to the power grid to prevent potential shock or fire.
It is essential to call 911, and it can address a local power company for help as soon as possible so that the situation in a safe and timely manner.
Electrical Fire
An electricity emergency, particularly an electrical fire, is a dangerous situation that needs to be addressed immediately. Lights out can indicate a major system issue, involving anything from a live wire to a malfunction in the home’s electrical system that presents a major hazard.
Furthermore, any loose wiring or equipment that is damaged can cause an electrical fire. A spark or a short circuit can cause a full-on fire in the home, leading to extensive structural and financial damages. Anytime the lights go out, unplug all appliances immediately and promptly notify an electrician to evaluate the situation.
If an electrical fire does start, the best course of action is to evacuate the premises and call the local fire department. Ignoring the signs of a light going out can result in physical and financial loss if an emergency arises.
Carbon Monoxide Leak
With a carbon monoxide leak, an electricity emergency would involve an immediate shut-off of electricity to prevent a fire or other hazardous situation from occurring. It is important to be aware that carbon monoxide gas can be flammable and that electricity running through it can create a spark and ignite the gas.
Furthermore, blocked or damaged electrical wiring can cause a short in the wires, leading to sparking and potential fire hazards in the area. Ultimately, turning off the electricity until the leak is resolved is necessary for safety and should always take priority in an emergency. A carbon monoxide leak can be deadly. If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, call 911 immediately and evacuate the area.
Safety Precautions When Dealing With Electrical Emergencies
If you find yourself in an electricity emergency, there are some personal safety tips you should follow to ensure your safety. If you see sparks or flames coming from an electrical outlet or appliance, do not touch it. And if you smell something burning near an electrical source, turn off the power at the breaker box if possible and evacuate the area. Do not try to investigate the source of the smell.
When you come into contact with water that may be electrically charged, do not stand in it. Move to a dry area and call 911 immediately. If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop, and roll to extinguish the flames. Do not run, as this will only fan the flames.
Learn What Constitutes an Electricity Emergency Today
In conclusion, an electricity emergency can happen day or night. If you experience a sudden loss of power, it is advised that you call your power provider promptly. This could help prevent a much bigger emergency if there is emergency electrical repair down the road.
In any emergency, always take the necessary precautions and be sure to stay safe. If you or someone you know is in an electricity emergency, call your power provider now!
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