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DIY guideSparks and shocks

Sparks, burning smell or a hot outlet: cut that circuit

Stay back, switch that circuit off at the panel and leave it off, then get an electrician.

  • 2 to 5 min
  • 5 steps
  • Every step animated
Sparks, burning smell or a hot outlet: cut that circuit: the animation’s first picture

5 steps

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  1. Don't touch the outlet, the switch or the cord. If you see flames or smoke, get everyone out and call 911.

    Never pull a plug that is sparking or melted.

  2. Open the panel's small door and find the breaker for that room. Its label may say which one.

    Only the small door, never the cover. A hot or buzzing panel? Leave it and call 911.

  3. Push that breaker firmly to Off. Not sure which one it is? Switch off the main breaker instead.

    Stand on a dry floor with dry hands.

  4. Don't switch it back on, and don't use that outlet, even if it seems fine later.

  5. Ask Handyman for an electrician to find what overheated and fix it.

What you need

  • A flashlight

Call a pro if

  • You see flames or smoke: get out and call 911
  • An outlet, switch or cord is hot, scorched, buzzing or sparking
  • The panel itself is hot, buzzing or smells of burning: get out and call 911

Handyman says: Leave it off. I'll find you an electrician.

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