Blocked toilet or sink: what to try first
Stop the flow, use a plunger, and know when to call a plumber.
20 itemsStart
Power socket sparking or smell of burning
Switch off the power, keep away and get an electrician. Fire first, repair later.
19 items · 5 sections · home, emergency, safety, electrical
Right now (4)
- If there is smoke or fire, leave and call the fire number: 911, 112 or 999Do not use water on an electrical fire.
- Switch off the power at the main breaker or fuse box if you can reach it safely with dry hands
- Unplug the device only if the socket is not hot and not sparking
- Keep everyone, including pets, away from it
Never (3)
- Never touch a hot, melted or sparking socket
- Never pour water on it
- Never keep using it because it still works
Check from a safe distance (4)
- Look for brown or black marks on the socket or the wall
- Smell for burnt plastic or fishy odour
- Check if the breaker trips again when you switch back on
- Note which devices were plugged in
Get it fixed (5)
- Call a licensed electrician the same day
- Keep that circuit switched off until it is fixed
- Tell your landlord at once if you rent
- Replace the damaged plug or cable that was in it
- Take a photo for your insurer
Prevent it (3)
- Do not overload a socket with extension leads and heaters
- Do not plug heaters or kettles into a multi-way strip
- Test smoke alarms monthly
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