---
title: 5 Things You Can Do In An Electrical Emergency
description: What to do in an electrical emergency in Sydney: unplug power cords, stay clear of fallen powerlines, get out of a house fire, use the right extinguisher and stay calm. Plus who to call.
url: https://russoelectrical.com.au/5-things-you-can-do-in-an-electrical-emergency
date_modified: 2026-10-28
author: Russo Electrical
language: en_US
---

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Over the years, electrical fires and other electrical accidents have caused property damage, injuries and, in some extreme cases, death. A significant cause of house fires in Australia is electrical faults. Thankfully, there are several things you can do to reduce your risk of experiencing an electrical emergency.

Key takeaways
## The short version

- **Unplug appliances when not in use:** prevent accidental shocks, short circuits and damage, especially during storms or when away.
- **Stay clear of fallen powerlines:** keep at least 8 metres away and report them immediately. They can still carry deadly currents.
- **Prioritise safety during fires:** evacuate immediately, alert others, and never re-enter a burning property.
- **Use the correct fire extinguisher:** only carbon dioxide or dry powder extinguishers are safe for electrical (Type E) fires.
- **Stay calm and call a professional:** avoid panic and never attempt DIY electrical fixes. Contact a licensed electrician.

## Emergency numbers

- [**000**Fire, injury or life-threatening danger](tel:000)
- [**13 13 88**Ausgrid: fallen powerlines and supply emergencies](tel:131388)
- [**131 003**Endeavour Energy: if your area is on their network](tel:131003)

## What to do in an electrical emergency

Some of the leading causes of an electrical emergency include:

- Faulty wiring
- Overloaded power boards
- Faulty power points
- Overheated light fixtures

Unfortunately, most people do not notice a problem with their wiring, which is why electrical fires are so dangerous and can occur completely out of the blue without any warning signs.

## 1Always unplug power cords

Ensure that you unplug the power cords from the outlets when working on appliances or electric devices. Although it’s easier to leave them plugged in, things can go wrong if you accidentally cut a power cord or short out an electrical appliance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

**Also:** always unplug electrical cords and turn off the power points in the event of a storm or if you go away on holiday.
## 2Fallen powerlines

Powerlines can be damaged by falling trees, storms, car crashes and lightning strikes. Fallen powerlines can be deadly, even if they don’t look it, because they can still carry high electrical currents.

**Stay at least 8 metres away (about two car lengths)** from a fallen powerline and report it straight away. Call **Ausgrid** on [**13 13 88**](tel:131388), or **Endeavour Energy** on [**131 003**](tel:131003) if your area is on their network. If anyone is injured or in danger, call [**000**](tel:000).
## 3Fire in the home

If there’s a fire in your home, alert everyone in your household immediately and get out of the house without trying to get anything. Your safety always comes first.

Once you’re out of the house, use a mobile phone or a neighbour’s phone to call [**000**](tel:000). We know how hard it is to stay put when your house is on fire, but the safest thing for everyone is to let the professionals do their job.

**Never re-enter a burning building,** even if it looks like the fire has calmed down.
## 4Have the right fire extinguisher

Keep the right fire extinguisher on hand. Electrical fires are classed as **Type E** fires, which means a standard (water) fire extinguisher will not work and can make things more dangerous.

Instead, you’ll need an extinguisher that discharges carbon dioxide or powder:

- **Carbon dioxide (CO₂)**Usually marked with a black band.
- **Dry powder**Usually marked with a white band.

## 5Don’t panic

If you find yourself in a stressful situation where you have to deal with electrical equipment failure, high-voltage powerlines or another electrical emergency, the key thing to remember is to try not to panic. Panicking can lead to mistakes being made and injury or worse.

**Most importantly:** always listen to an electrician’s advice, do your best to stay calm, and don’t try to fix the problem yourself.
## When to call an electrician

If you notice a problem with your power points, power cords or light fittings, do not try to fix the problem yourself, but [contact an electrician](https://russoelectrical.com.au/contact-us/) straight away. For problems at the switchboard, such as repeated tripping or a burning smell, see our [switchboard support service](https://russoelectrical.com.au/services/switchboard-support/). If the power has gone out, read [what to do in a power failure](https://russoelectrical.com.au/what-to-do-in-a-power-failure/).

At [Russo Electrical](https://russoelectrical.com.au/), we have over 25 years of electrician work experience in Sydney. We pride ourselves on consistently delivering honest and trustworthy advice.

Have an electrical problem?
## Talk to a licensed Sydney electrician

Call us or request a quote to find out more. For fire, injury or immediate danger, always call 000 first.

[Book Quote Now](https://russoelectrical.com.au/request-a-quote/)[(02) 5839 3156](tel:+61258393156)Online NowFAQs
## Electrical emergency FAQs

What should you do first in an electrical emergency?
The first thing you should do is stay calm and assess the situation. If there is immediate danger such as fire or exposed wiring, evacuate and call for help. Avoid touching any electrical source and never attempt DIY fixes.

Why is it important to unplug appliances when not in use?
Unplugging appliances helps prevent accidental shocks, short circuits and electrical fires. It is especially important during storms or when leaving your home for extended periods.

How far should you stay away from fallen powerlines?
You should stay at least 8 metres away (or about two car lengths). Even if they appear inactive, fallen powerlines can still carry deadly electrical currents. Report them to Ausgrid on 13 13 88 or Endeavour Energy on 131 003.

What should you do if there is a fire in your home?
Immediately alert everyone and evacuate the house. Do not try to retrieve belongings. Once outside, call 000 and never re-enter the property.

What type of fire extinguisher is safe for electrical fires?
Only carbon dioxide (CO₂) or dry powder extinguishers are safe for electrical fires (Type E). Using the wrong extinguisher can make the situation more dangerous.

Why is staying calm important during an electrical emergency?
Panicking can lead to poor decisions and increase the risk of injury. Staying calm allows you to think clearly and follow proper safety procedures.

Can you fix electrical problems yourself?
No. Electrical issues should always be handled by a licensed electrician. Attempting DIY fixes can lead to serious injury, fire hazards or further damage.

Keep reading
## More from Russo Electrical

[What to do in a power failureSteps to take when the power goes out.](https://russoelectrical.com.au/what-to-do-in-a-power-failure/)[Switchboard defects and defect noticesWarning signs and what to do next.](https://russoelectrical.com.au/switchboard-defects-and-defect-notices-in-sydney/)[Child electrical safety at homeA parent’s guide for Sydney families.](https://russoelectrical.com.au/child-electrical-safety-at-home/)[Switchboard supportFaults, tripping and damaged equipment.](https://russoelectrical.com.au/services/switchboard-support/)Independent information
## Official resources

- [Fire and Rescue NSW (home fire safety)](https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/)
- [Ausgrid (outages and emergencies)](https://www.ausgrid.com.au/)
- [Endeavour Energy (outages and emergencies)](https://www.endeavourenergy.com.au/)
- [NSW Fair Trading (electrical safety)](https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/)

In any emergency involving fire, injury or immediate danger, call 000.

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