Resident Safety
Electrical Safety and Warning Signs
Stop using damaged equipment and report heat, sparks, shocks, burning odors or repeated breaker problems promptly.
Active Electrical Emergency
For fire, smoke, sparking service equipment, a downed power line, severe shock or immediate danger, keep people away and call 911 or the utility emergency line as appropriate. Do not touch a person who is still in contact with an electrical source.
Warning Signs to Report
- Outlet, switch, plug or panel that is hot, discolored, buzzing, sparking or smells burned.
- Repeatedly tripping breaker or blown fuse.
- Shock or tingling from an appliance, faucet, switch or fixture.
- Loose outlet, exposed wire, damaged cover or water near electrical equipment.
- Flickering lights affecting one area or appliance connection.
- Damaged service line, meter, exterior equipment or tree contact.
Safe Resident Practices
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Use listed equipment according to manufacturer instructions | Overloading outlets, adapters or power strips |
| Keep cords dry, visible and protected from damage | Running cords under rugs, through doors or where they are pinched |
| Use extension cords only for temporary, appropriate loads | Using them as permanent wiring or for high-load equipment unless specifically rated |
| Use required GFCI protection and report a device that will not reset | Bypassing grounding, safety interlocks or breaker protection |
| Keep panels and utility equipment accessible | Opening panels, replacing breakers or performing electrical repairs |
If a Breaker Trips
Turn off or unplug the equipment involved only if it is safe. Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that trips again, feels hot or is associated with sparks, odor, water or damaged equipment. Keep the area clear and report the exact circuit, room and circumstances.
Submit a Useful Request
State the room, outlet or fixture, what was operating, the warning sign, when it began and whether the breaker tripped. Add a photo only from a safe distance; never remove covers to obtain one.
Your Lease Still Controls
This guide provides practical resident information. Follow your signed lease, property rules, equipment instructions, emergency responders and applicable law for your specific home.