Electrical safety advice
What to do if something electrical is unsafe. Safety first, then book an electrician.
If you think there is an immediate danger to life, leave the property and call 999.
Burning smell, smoke or sparks
- If there is smoke or fire, get everyone out and call 999
- Don't touch anything that feels hot, is buzzing or is sparking
- If it is safe to reach, switch off at the main switch on your consumer unit (fuse box)
- Book an emergency electrician
Water near electrics
- Keep away from wet switches, sockets and light fittings
- Only switch off at the main switch if you can reach it from somewhere dry
- Turn off the water supply if it is safe to do so
Exposed or damaged cables
- Don't touch exposed wires or anything they are touching
- Keep children and pets away
- If it is safe, switch off at the main switch and book an electrician
Power cuts
If your neighbours and street lights are also off, call 105, the free national power cut number. If only your property has no power, check your consumer unit. You can try resetting a tripped switch once. If it trips again, leave it off and book an electrician.
Carbon monoxide alarm sounding
Get everyone out, open doors and windows if it is safe, and call the Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
Please don't attempt electrical repairs yourself
Electrical work can cause serious injury and fire. Leave repairs to a qualified electrician.
Once it's safe, book an electrician
Book online and enter your postcode to see your all-inclusive price, or call us to talk it through.