Electrical emergencies are rare, but when one happens, a few clear steps make a big difference. Keep this checklist somewhere the household can find it.
If there is smoke, fire or sparking
Get everyone out and call 911. Do not use water on an electrical fire. Do not go back inside to switch anything off.
If someone has received a shock
Do not touch them if they may still be in contact with the source. If it is safe, switch off the power at the panel. Call 911 for anything more than a minor tingle.
If there is water near electrical equipment
Stay out of standing water. If you can reach the panel without standing in water, switch off the main breaker. If you cannot, leave the area and call for help.
If you smell burning or an outlet is hot
Unplug anything connected to it if you can do so safely, switch off that circuit at the panel, and call an electrician. Do not use the outlet again until it has been checked.
If you lose power
Check whether neighbors also have no power. If they do, it is likely a utility outage, so report it to CenterPoint Energy. If only your home or part of it is affected, check for tripped breakers. If a breaker will not reset or trips immediately, leave it off and call an electrician.
Be ready before it happens
- Know where your panel is and make sure the circuit labels are readable
- Keep a flashlight near the panel
- Save your electrician’s number in your phone
Need help with this? See our Emergency Electrical Services in Houston, TX page, or call (713) 555-0142.
