Electrical emergencies can happen out of nowhere – if not tended to immediately, the results can be disastrous. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and know how to react if an electrical emergency were to present itself. This article will discuss the most common types of electrical emergencies and how to prepare for them.
Power Outages
Power outages are disruptions in energy supplies that take out power in a certain area. They can happen unexpectedly due to a variety of factors, such as severe weather, damaged power cables, fallen trees and so on. To be prepared in the event of a power outage, it’s important to keep essential supplies handy, such as flashlights, batteries, food and water. Make sure to also have a well-stocked first aid kit and an emergency plan for your family in case you need to evacuate.
You could also invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). This is a backup device that helps bridge the gap between an outage and when the electricity is restored. It will allow essential household items such as fridges and lights to stay operational during an outage.
Electrical Fires
Although electricity is a necessity, it can also be very dangerous. Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits are common causes of electrical fires and can have devastating effects if not caught in time. To avoid such a situation, it is important to have your premises regularly inspected by a certified electrician. This will identify any potential issues and ensure everything is up to the required safety standards.
Furthermore, regularly inspect your appliances and wiring – look for signs of melting, burning, hot spots, sparks and strange odours. It is also important to never overload your power points and to use surge protectors if needed.
Electrical Shock
An electrical shock is a very dangerous situation that should be taken seriously. It happens when someone touches a live electric circuit. In many cases, this can cause a person to go into cardiac arrest and can be fatal.
To avoid such an occurrence, be sure to follow all safety measures when handling electrical items and appliances. Make sure to use any appropriate safety gear, such as insulated gloves and footwear, and inspect all electrical equipment prior to use. Never touch any live wires or hoses and never repair any electrical equipment yourself – call a certified electrician instead.
Electric Shock Drowning
Electric shock drowning (ESD) occurs when someone comes in contact with an electric current in the water, resulting in unconsciousness and, in some cases, death. This type of emergency is often overlooked but takes place more often than you might think, especially in areas with marinas and swimming pools.
To avoid such a dangerous situation occurring, never swim around marinas or pools where electric currents may be present. Similarly, never touch any metal items, such as railings or equipment, while in the water. If a power failure happens, make sure to check all machines and controllers to ensure a sudden power surge does not occur in the water.
Electrical emergencies can happen all the time and can be life-threatening if not handled correctly. At Just-In Time Electrical, we strongly advise all our customers to follow safety protocols and have their electrical wiring and appliances inspected regularly. We provide certified electricians and emergency services for both residences and businesses, so you’ll never have to worry about your safety and well-being. Contact us today to learn more.
Just-In Time Electrical is your local leading electrical contractor based in Brisbane’s western suburbs. Just-In Time Electrical has been operating for over 12 years and draws on a combined knowledge base of over 30 years.