Put Safety First
When an electrical emergency strikes, your first move should be to protect yourself and your family. Did you know that electrical fires cause over 50,000 home fires each year in the U.S.? If you see smoke, smell something burning, or notice sparks, step away from the hazard and call 911. And please, don’t throw water on an electrical fire — instead, use a Class C fire extinguisher if it’s safe, or follow our URL LINK: guide to safely putting out an electrical fire.
Shut Off Power if It’s Safe
If it’s safe and dry, head to your breaker panel and shut off the main switch. This simple step can stop further damage, but only do it if there’s no smoke, heat, or buzzing from the panel. Even after unplugging something, remember that some parts may still hold a dangerous charge. If you’re unsure, wait for a pro.
Keep Your Distance
While you wait for help, keep a safe distance from any scorched outlets, damaged cords, or appliances that were in use when the trouble started. Electricity can travel through water and conductive surfaces, so make sure kids and pets are kept well away.
Call a Licensed Emergency Electrician
At Mr. Electric of Winter Haven, we offer same-day and after-hours emergency service to quickly get your home safe again. We’ll find the root cause, make repairs to code, and, if needed, handle any permitting with the City of Winter Haven or Polk County.
Prevent the Next Emergency
Once the immediate danger is over, it’s the perfect time to think about prevention. Whole-home surge protection can guard your electronics and appliances against lightning strikes and power grid surges. Upgrading your electrical panel or replacing old breakers before they fail can save you from the next big scare. And don’t forget about GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor areas — they’re a must for shock protection in moisture-prone spaces.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Electrical emergencies are stressful, but being prepared and knowing what to do can make all the difference. Whether you’re in Winter Haven or anywhere in our URL LINK: service area, our licensed team is ready to help with fast, reliable emergency response and the upgrades that keep your home safe.