Would you know what to do if faced with an electrical emergency?

To mark Electrical Safety Awareness Month in May, NICEIC, the UK’s leading certification and training body for the electrical industry, is encouraging households to consider whether they would be prepared in the event of an electrical emergency and, crucially, whether they know how to respond safely should one occur.

Electrical faults and hazards can arise without warning, many households remain unsure of what steps to take in situations such as a sudden power outage, a burning smell from their sockets or appliances, or visible signs of electrical damage. A lack of awareness around emergency procedures can lead to delays in action being taken to resolve potential electrical risks.

Power cuts are one of the most common electrical issues faced by households. In the event of an outage, do not assume your electricity provider knows you have had a power cut. Alert them as soon as you become aware of the issue, this, in turn, will ensure your provider can send an engineer to investigate the cause and fix the issue.

Where a fault appears to originate within the home, it is important householders know how to safely isolate the electrical supply using their consumer unit (fuse box). Unplugging appliances and avoiding contact with damaged electrical equipment can also help reduce risk while the issue is being assessed.

What to do in an electrical emergency:

• Check if it’s a wider power cut by looking at neighbouring properties or street lighting.
• Call 105 to report or get updates on a power outage in your area.
• If safe to do so, switch off the electricity supply at the consumer unit (fuse box).
• Unplug appliances, particularly if you suspect a fault with a specific device.
• Do not touch damaged sockets or exposed wiring.
• Never attempt DIY repairs on electrical systems or appliances.
• Contact a registered electrician to investigate any suspected faults.

Paul Collins, Technical Director at NICEIC, said: “Electrical emergencies can be unsettling, particularly if you are unsure how to respond. Knowing the basics, such as how to safely switch off your power supply and when to seek professional help, can make a significant difference in protecting both your home and family.

“Not all electrical issues are emergencies, but warning signs such as burning smells, sparks or visible damage should never be ignored. In these situations, it’s vital to act quickly but safely, and to avoid attempting any repairs yourself.”

Households can take simple steps to improve their preparedness, including familiarising themselves with the layout of their consumer unit (fuse box) and understanding how to turn off the electricity supply in an emergency.

Attempting to fix electrical faults without the appropriate skills and knowledge can increase the risk of electric shock, fire, and further damage. Instead, any suspected faults or damage should always be assessed by a qualified professional.

Paul added: “Preparation is key. Taking some time to understand your home’s electrical system will help you to respond more confidently if faced with warning signs or in an emergency.

“If in doubt, the advice is simple: contact a NICEIC-registered electrician. It provides peace of mind that any issues will be handled safely, competently and in compliance with the latest regulations.”

To find an NICEIC-registered electrician near you, visit niceic.com/find-a-tradesperson