Our homes are filled with appliances and gadgets powered by electricity. While all these provide convenience, we also have a responsibility to keep our electrical systems void of any malfunctions. Electrical issues are known to cause property damage to even nearby houses since they are connected to the same power line.

So, knowing how to respond in an electrical emergency can make all the difference. In this blog, FizFix, your trusted electrical service provider in Dubai, will equip you with the knowledge to take control of the electrical situation.

Types of Electrical Emergencies

Power Outages:

Though extremely rare in Dubai, the recent heavy rains caused floods all over Dubai and many places faced power outages. Hopefully, the concerned authorities will get everything up and running, but in the mean time, make sure that all appliances and even the mains are turned off, so that when the power comes back on, it may not damage your electrical connection.

Electrical Fires:

Electrical fires can be caused from anything like a small capacitor burning in an electronic gadget to overloaded circuits in your apartment complex. They’ll get dangerous if the fire spreads to other places like furniture. Always be wary about burning odours, smoke or sparks from electrical appliances and outlets. 

Electrical Shocks:

If you happen to get an electric shock, even if it was minor, understand that it can happen again and something may be at fault here. If you see anyone else getting an electric shock, do not touch them. And it is also true that an electric shock can get stuck to the source.

Fallen Power Lines:

This can be a huge concern as they can be energized and transmit fatal electrical current to conducting objects nearby. Weather conditions, vehicle accidents or tree branches can cause these mishaps. 

Burnt Outlets:

Burnt outlets are commonly caused by overloaded circuits, loose conections or faulty wiring. You may notice burning odors, smoke or visible scorch marks. These are all potential fire hazards.

Short Circuits and Circuit Breaker Failure:

Short circuits occur when two live and neutral wires come into contact. They can cause sparks, overheating and electrical fires if left unchecked. Circuit breaker failures prevent the quick interruption of electrical current during overloads.

Circuit Failure Due to Faulty Appliance:

Internal defects, wear and tear or improper usage can cause electrical appliances to malfunction and may result in the circuits tripping or failing. You may also get an electric shock from such an appliance.

Buzzing Sound from the Breaker Box:

A buzzing sound from the breaker box can indicate loose connections, arcing, or electrical faults. These can lead to overheating, electrical fires, or equipment failures.

How to Handle Electrical Emergencies

General Steps for Handling Any Electrical Emergency

• Ensure Personal Safety First:

Before taking any action, prioritize your own safety and the safety of others around you. Avoid direct contact with electrical sources.

• Call Emergency Services:

In the event of an electrical emergency, such as fires, shocks, or fallen power lines, immediately contact emergency services by dialing 999 in Dubai.

• Turn Off the Power Supply:

If it’s safe and feasible, cut off the power supply to the affected area or appliance. Find the main circuit breaker or fuse box and switch off the corresponding circuit breaker or remove the fuse.

Specific Steps for Each Type of Electrical Emergency

Power Outages:

• Turn off the main power supply to cooling and heating appliances.
• Check for tripped circuit breakers and redistribute the load.
• Inspect wiring and contact an electrician if necessary.
• Contact the distributor for prolonged outages.

Electrical Fires:

• Cut off the power supply.
• Use a Class-C fire extinguisher.
• Call the fire brigade and evacuate if necessary.

Electrical Shocks:

• If safe to touch, turn off the power supply.
• Do not touch the person receiving the shock; use insulated items to separate them from the electrical source.
• Call emergency services and administer first aid if trained.

Fallen Power Lines:

• Maintain a safe distance of at least 40 feet from the fallen power line.
• Avoid contact with anything, especially trees in contact with the line.
• Contact local authorities immediately to report the fallen line.

Burnt Outlets:

• Unplug devices from the outlet and avoid touching them.
• Open the breaker box and turn off the power to the area.

Short Circuits and Circuit Breaker Failure:

• Unplug devices and switch off power.
• Contact the utility company to inspect circuit breakers.
• Call an electrician to repair any faulty wiring or connections.

Circuit Failure Due to Electrical Appliance Problem:

• Determine if the issue is with the appliance or electrical system.
• Contact an electrician to inspect the circuit and appliances.

Buzzing Sound From the Breaker Box:

• Do not attempt DIY repairs; call an electrician.
• Avoid ignoring the issue to prevent potential electrical fires.

When to Call Professional Electricians in Dubai

While home owners like to do electrical work on their own, complex jobs are best left to the professionals. Here are some clear indicators that you should call licensed electrician services Dubai:

• If you’re unsure about handling electrical issues, don’t hesitate to call a professional. Do not trust YouTube videos to help you.
• Exposed wiring, damaged outlets, or faulty switches are a serious safety hazard. It is best to contact a qualified electrician to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs.
• If you suspect overloading or improper grounding in your circuits, call an electrician to diagnose and fix the issue before it leads to electrical problems or fires.
• If your circuit breakers trip frequently, it could indicate an overload on the circuit or a faulty breaker itself. Calling a professional electrician is best in this situation.

If you need help with any electrical work in your home, contact FizFix. We are a home maintenance company in Dubai with a team of electricians who gets the job done quickly.