Isolate Home Power After Burning Wire Odors

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Instruct all occupants to evacuate if smoke or strong odor is present to ensure safety.
• Locate the main electrical panel and identify the main breaker switch before shutdown.
• Use the back of your hand to check the panel for heat to detect fire risk.
• Turn off all individual breakers before the main breaker to prevent arcing surges.
• Avoid water and do not touch hot or discolored outlets to prevent electrocution.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and clear fumes after power is cut.
• Check for recently tripped breakers or blown fuses to help find the affected circuit.
• Inspect outlets and switches for scorch marks or melting to locate the odor source.
• Document all findings with photos for insurance and electrician reference before repairs.
• Do not reset breakers or restore power until a licensed electrician inspects for faults.
• Notify your utility provider if a main service line issue is suspected to prevent hazards.
• Keep a fire extinguisher for electrical fires nearby in case of flare-ups during inspection.