Electrical emergency
Fire, smoke, or a burning smell? Get out, then call 911.
Once everyone is safe, call us. For anything below that line, this page helps you decide how fast you need an electrician.
Get out first
Leave the house, then call 911 from outside.
- A burning smell from an outlet, switch, panel, or appliance
- Sparks, smoke, or flames from anything electrical
- An outlet or cord that's melting or scorched
Call us today
Not an emergency, but don't sit on it.
- Lights that flicker or dim when something turns on
- A panel, breaker, or outlet that's warm to the touch (don't open it)
- A breaker that trips again right after you reset it
- Outlets or switches that buzz, crackle, or spark
- Shocks or tingles from a switch, appliance, or faucet
- Part of the house went dead and the breaker didn't fix it
Power line down or sagging? Stay at least 30 feet from it and anything it's touching, and keep people and pets back. Treat it as live. Call 911, then report it to Xcel Energy at 1-800-895-1999. If a line is on your car, stay inside until first responders say it's safe.
Quick check
Not sure how urgent it is?
While you wait
Stay safe until we get there.
- Don't touch a panel, outlet, or cord that's hot, wet, or sparking.
- If there's water near the panel, stay out of the water and keep everyone back.
- Keep people and pets away from the problem area.
- Wait outside or in another room until help arrives.
General safety guidance for a concept site, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, get out and call 911.