An electrical emergency is any problem that creates an immediate risk of fire, electric shock, equipment damage, or unsafe loss of power. Smoke, sparks, exposed energized wiring, burning odors, overheated components, and repeated electrical arcing should always get urgent attention.
A power outage may also require an electrician if it affects only your property or part of the building. If surrounding properties have also lost power, report the outage to the electric utility. Never approach a downed line or assume that it’s safe because the power appears to be out.