Atlanta Emergency Electrical Services

Skilled Electricians Serving the Atlanta Metro

An electrical emergency refers to any situation where the immediate risk of electrical hazards can cause injury, death, or significant property damage. These emergencies come in various forms, including exposed live wires, electrical fires, power outages affecting critical systems, or potential electrocution incidents. You should always immediately call in the professionals if you think you may be dealing with any kind of electrical emergency.

Don’t risk a house fire, serious injury, or worse! R.S. Andrews offers 24/7 Atlanta emergency electrical services to homeowners and businesses. Our highly skilled electricians are ready to jump into action, inspect your property, and fix whatever problem you are facing. Safety is our highest priority, and we understand that time is of the essence. You can expect clear communication, transparent pricing, and a dedication to exceptional service from beginning to end.

Our emergency electrical services come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so do not hesitate to call (470) 264-8128 or contact us online! 

What Is Considered an Electrical Emergency?

Electrical emergencies can arise unexpectedly and escalate quickly, posing serious risks to health, safety, and property. Being able to identify the signs of a serious problem can help prevent potentially catastrophic outcomes.

You should not wait to request our Atlanta emergency electrical services if you encounter any of the following issues:

• Burning smells or scorched marks. Detecting a burning smell or finding scorch marks around outlets or electrical panels often signifies overheating components, faulty wiring, or an overloaded outlet. These conditions can lead to electrical fires if left unattended.
• Dimming or flickering lights. If lights in your home frequently flicker or dim, it may be a sign of loose wiring, defective fixtures, or overstrained circuits. While occasional dimming can be harmless, consistent problems can indicate more severe issues that warrant a comprehensive inspection by an experienced electrician.
• Frequent circuit breaker tripping. Frequent tripping of circuit breakers can indicate overloaded circuits, short circuits, or ground faults. While circuit breakers are designed to protect your home by cutting off the flow of electricity when there is an issue, persistent tripping is a sign that should not be ignored. You should have a licensed electrician evaluate the situation to address any underlying problems that could pose serious risks.
• Electric shocks. Experiencing electric shocks when plugging in or touching appliances can be alarming. This could be caused by improper grounding, faulty appliances, or issues within the wiring system. Even minor shocks are indicative of underlying electrical problems, so it’s crucial to have a professional assess and resolve any potential problem to avoid the risk of serious injury.
• Outlets that warm to the touch. Outlets that become warm or hot to the touch can indicate a significant issue, such as overloading, damaged wiring, or insufficient insulation. Heat around an outlet is a potential fire hazard, so you should stop using the outlet immediately and seek an electrician's expertise to diagnose and repair the problem.
• Buzzing or crackling sounds. Audible buzzing or crackling sounds coming from switches, outlets, or electrical panels should never be ignored. These noises can be caused by arcing, loose connections, or deteriorating components. Prompt, professional evaluation is necessary to prevent potential fires and electrical failures.
• Power surges. Unexplained power surges can damage appliances, electronic devices, and your overall electrical system. They may result from faulty wiring, lightning strikes, or problems within the power grid. Installing surge protectors and having an electrician investigate the source of surges can help protect your property and maintain electrical stability.
• Exposed live wires. Whether caused by damaged insulation, improper repairs, or wear and tear over time, live wires can deliver severe electric shocks if touched. In areas with exposed wiring, make every effort to keep a safe distance and contact a licensed electrician immediately. Be sure to secure the area and keep others from getting near the live wire until professional help arrives. 
• Electrical fires. Electrical fires can occur when wiring, outlets, or appliances overheat due to faults, overloading, or poor maintenance. These fires can quickly spread and cause extensive damage, so immediate action is critical. Call 9-1-1, and avoid trying to use water to extinguish the flames, as this can exacerbate the situation. Instead, use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (if available) while waiting for the fire department. Then, one of our professional electricians can inspect and address the root causes to help prevent future electrical fire hazards.

What to Do in an Electrical Emergency

When confronted with an electrical emergency, prioritizing safety is paramount. The first step is to stay calm and avoid panicking, as clear thinking is crucial for effective action. Begin by confirming everyone in the vicinity is aware of the dangers present and, if necessary, evacuate. For any immediate threat, such as an electrical fire or exposed wires, keep a safe distance and check that no one else is at risk of coming into contact with the hazard.

Next, turn off the power at the main circuit breaker if it is safe to do so. Shutting off the power eliminates the risk of electric shock and can prevent further damage. However, if the electrical panel is compromised or if you have to pass through a dangerous area to reach it, do not attempt this step. Instead, call 9-1-1 immediately and proceed with caution. Again, under no circumstances should water be used to extinguish electrical fires, as this can make the situation worse. Only use a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires, which is typically classified as a Class C extinguisher.

While waiting for professional assistance, it is important to avoid using electrical appliances or devices. Disconnect any that may have been in use at the time the emergency began, but only if it is safe to do so. Avoid touching any wires, sockets, or electrical panels until a licensed electrician has assessed and resolved the issue. 

Try to establish a safe perimeter around the affected area. This might include cordoning off sections of the home or commercial building and placing warning signs to prevent accidental entry. Inform all building occupants, especially children, of the dangers of electrical emergencies and the importance of adhering to safety measures. Having a pre-established emergency plan that includes a clear evacuation route and designated meeting point can significantly enhance safety.

After the immediate danger has been addressed, you should schedule a thorough inspection of your electrical system. Our licensed electricians can identify the root cause of the problem, fix the immediate issues, and check for other potential hazards that might not be visible. Regular maintenance and inspections can prevent future emergencies. Installing safety devices such as surge protectors and smoke detectors can also provide an additional layer of protection.

Educating your loved ones or employees about basic electrical safety practices is a proactive measure in preventing electrical emergencies. This includes understanding the importance of not overloading sockets, recognizing the hazards of using damaged appliances, and knowing how to disconnect power supplies safely. If you are not familiar with these best practices, our team can walk you through basic things you can do to reduce the risk of electrical problems. 

Our Atlanta emergency electrical services are just a call away, so dial (470) 264-8128 or contact us online at the first sign of trouble!