Holiday Electrical Emergencies: What to Do (and What to Ignore)
The holidays are peak time for electrical issues — more cooking, more appliances, more guests, and more decorations. When something goes wrong, panic can make things worse. Staying calm and knowing what to do can prevent injuries and limit damage.
This guide covers the most common holiday electrical emergencies, what action to take, and when to call a licensed electrician.
Common Holiday Electrical Issues
Partial power outage (only your home affected)
Repeated tripping of RCDs or breakers
Burning smells from outlets, appliances, or the switchboard
Sparking power points or light fittings
AC failure with unusual noises or smells
Flickering lights in multiple rooms
Blown fuses or smoke from an appliance
Not all of these are emergencies — here’s how to tell the difference.
Immediate Actions: Stay Calm
If you see fire or heavy smoke, evacuate immediately and call 000. Do not attempt to extinguish an electrical fire yourself.
For other issues:
Remove people from danger — electric shock = call 000
Isolate the issue — unplug the appliance if safe
Reset once only — if a breaker trips again, leave it off
Switch off affected circuits or appliances if you notice smells or smoke
Take note of symptoms — smells, sounds, timing
Call us if unsure — we’ll advise if it’s urgent or can wait
What’s Urgent vs What Can Wait
🚨 Urgent — Call 000 or an electrician immediately
Fire, smoke, or electric shock
Heavy sparking or hot switchboard
Persistent burning smells
Ongoing sparking from outlets
⚡ Same-day electrician recommended
Repeated breaker or RCD trips
Partial power outage affecting only your home
AC emitting smoke, smells, or loud noises
Visible damage near the switchboard
🕒 Can usually wait (but still get checked)
Single blown globe or appliance failure
One-off breaker trip that doesn’t repeat
Minor flickering that doesn’t escalate
Safe Troubleshooting Examples
RCD tripped: Unplug appliances and reset once. Trips again? Stop and call us.
Sparking outlet: Unplug everything, isolate the circuit, and call.
AC smells or noises: Turn it off and isolate — running it can worsen damage.
Partial outage: Check your switchboard. If neighbours have power, call us.
What You Should Never Do
Never use water on an electrical fire
Never attempt DIY electrical repairs
Don’t keep resetting a tripping breaker
Don’t run major appliances on extension leads long-term
Quick Prevention Tips for Hosting
Avoid daisy-chaining power boards
Use outdoor-rated leads and keep them off wet ground
Test RCDs and smoke alarms before guests arrive
Consider a quick load check if hosting large gatherings
Why Call a Licensed Electrician?
Holiday electrical issues need fast, calm, professional handling. Our team is experienced in holiday callouts and busy homes.
✔️ We prioritise safety
✔️ We explain what’s urgent vs what can wait
✔️ We leave your home safe with a clear next step
Book Help Now
If you’re dealing with an urgent issue, fill out the form below this article or call us. Want peace of mind before guests arrive? Book a pre-holiday electrical check.
