Act now
Leave now: smoke or a panel problem
Smoke or flames mean get out, stay out and call 911. A burning smell, sparks, heat or sizzling at the panel itself means do not touch it; leave and call 911 or your electric utility from outside.
Why this happens
The Red Cross says to get out, stay out and call 911 if a fire starts. CPSC lists sizzling or buzzing sounds, overheating and the odor of hot insulation among the warning signs of a hazard in a home electrical system, and says never to remove the panel cover, because that is a job for a qualified electrician.
Do this now
- If you see smoke or flames, get everyone out, stay out and call 911 from outside.
- If the burning smell, sparks, heat or sizzling is at the panel, do not open it or touch any breaker.
- Leave the house and call 911 or your electric utility's emergency line from outside.
- Call a licensed electrician once the scene is safe.
When to stop. Smoke or flames: get out, stay out and call 911. Do not go back in for anything.
What to tell the electrician
- What you saw, heard or smelled at the panel, and when.
- That the electric water heater has no hot water.
- The make, model and age of the water heater from its data plate, if you could see it safely.
Build the full list: what to tell the licensed electrician.
Start this troubleshooter over
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