Emergency Procedures · Electrical Emergency

Electrical Panel Arcing Emergency

Response to sparking, buzzing, or burning smell at a service panel: 1) Evacuate area if smoke is present, 2) Do not open panel cover, 3) Shut off main disconnect only if safe and accessible, 4) Call fire department for active smoke/arcing, 5) Contact licensed electrician for emergency diagnostics.

Common symptoms

• Crackling or buzzing at panel
• Burnt-plastic odor near breakers
• Visible sparking around breakers
• Repeated tripping of main breaker

Common repairs

• Breaker and busbar replacement
• Loose lug correction and torque verification
• Panel replacement for heat damage
• Load rebalance and conductor replacement

Related terms

• Arc Fault