A range of electrical issues can lead to an emergency, from appliances sparking and setting fires to power outages and fallen power lines. Preventing major concerns and ensuring professionals can resolve the problem are keys to preventing potentially dangerous situations.
If you find yourself in the face of an electrical emergency, here is everything you need to know.
1) Power Outages
A major power outage is always an emergency, and it is important to be prepared for one. Consider these recommendations from the Red Cross for preparing for a power outage.
- Have an emergency kit ready with a torch, batteries, matches, extra cash and other emergency items.
- Keep a battery-powered radio with extra batteries.
- Check emergency supplies and ensure they are up to date and ready.
2) Electrical Fires
Electrical fires can be small, but they can also be incredibly dangerous. In fact, electrical fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire deaths in Queensland. If you see the problem early, you can stop a small fire from spreading and getting worse.
Several factors can cause a fire, and they are not limited to faulty wiring. Faulty appliances, overloading circuits, exposed wires and more can lead to a fire. You should be extra cautious around these types of scenarios.
If a fire breaks out, leave the room and close the door to where it originated. Do not attempt to put it out yourself. Call 000 to alert a professional.
3) Fallen Power Lines
If you come across a fallen power line, you should stay at least 10 metres away. The incredibly low voltage that charges the lines means they do not offer the same level of shock as a power line, but the additional charge still means they can cause harm.
If you see a fallen power line, you should alert the proper authorities and wait for them to arrive and take charge of the situation. You should not attempt to handle the power lines yourself.
4) Electrical Burns or Injuries
If you have been injured by a shock from an appliance or other electrical source, you need to seek medical attention immediately. While electrical shocks do not typically cause long-term injury, they can cause serious problems.
If you are left with burn marks or other injuries after receiving a shock, you should seek medical attention. Even if you do not think an injury is serious, it is better to be safe than sorry.
5) Electrical Shocks
If you get shocked, you can receive an electric shock. While this can happen with any electrical device, it can be especially harmful with large electrical devices.
If you have been shocked, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. While this is not a dangerous situation, you may have suffered an injury that requires medical attention.
Conclusion
There is a lot of potential for danger when it comes to electricity. It is important always to be prepared in case of any electrical emergency.
If you need any help with electrical repair or installations, trust only Blue Electrical. We provide 24-hour electrician services on the Sunshine Coast. Get in touch with us today to learn more.