You should probably do what most people do, run around screaming for help. Okay, forget what I just said, though that’s what most people tend to do when there’s a home emergency like this.

Most outlets light up when something is plugged into the outlet that draws more electricity than it was originally designed for. Most houses being built today have switches installed to prevent things like this from happening, but that doesn’t guarantee anything. Just like everything else, sometimes electrical switches won’t turn off during an emergency.

If there is an electrical outlet fire, make sure your children and everyone else is in a safe place first, before anything else. Make sure your hands aren’t wet and you’re not standing in water before you even think about opening the main electrical panel. If you don’t feel comfortable, contact 911 right away.

If your outlet catches fire, the first thing you’ll want to do is turn off the main electrical switch in the house. If you don’t know which of your electrical switches is the main switch, turn them all off. You can safely assume that all electrical switches will be in the on position, but they should have on and off sides that are clearly visible for help.

Now what do you do when your outlet catches on fire and you don’t know where the electrical switches are located? You can find your electrical switches at the main electrical panel, which should be located near the electric meter.

Most electric meters and main electrical panels will be located on the outside of your home, but they could be located in your basement if you have one. If you are unable to turn off the electrical switches or if the outlet continues to burn and smoke, you should contact your local fire department, because you are in the midst of a home damage emergency.

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