On Sun, 1 Apr 2018 10:57:46 -0400, Ed Pawlowski wrote:

On 4/1/2018 10:44 AM, TrialDog wrote:
Was sitting here, minding my own business, and I hear a small pop/sizzle
from
the light switch and the overhead light came on. Now neither switch will
make
it go off. My main question is whether this is dangerous or whether I
should
cut the breaker to the whole room and not use this computer until an
electrician gets here. I've never replaced a switch or plug, even though
I'm
not completely helpless around the house. It's* Sunday, so any repairs are
going to likely have to wait until tomorrow. Main question is whether I
need
to cut the power to the switch.


Never heard of that happening. I have no idea if there is a danger, but
when you hear a pop and sizzle, not good. I'd turn off the breaker.
Lights and receptacles are often on different breakers so you may be
able to use the computer. Ot use an extension cord.

Switches are easy to replace, usually with just a screwdriver. Lowes is
open today.

1. CALL 911 - TELL THEM TO SEND THE FIRE DEPT. WITHOUT DELAY.

2. GET YOUR FAMILY OUT OF THE HOUSE INCLUDING ALL PETS.

3. SHUT OFF THE MAIN BREAKER IN YOUR HOUSE, AND CALL THE ELECTRIC
COMPANY TO DISCONNECT THE POWER LINES GOING TO YOUR HOME. TELL THEM ITS
AN EMERGENCY.

4. CALL AN ELECTRICIAN THAT OFFERS EMERGENCY - WEEKEND SUPPORT. TELL
THEM TO COME IMMEDIATELY, BUT IF THE HOME BEGINS TO BURN, YOU WILL
CANCEL THEIR ARRIVAL BY PHONE.

5. CONTACT RELATIVES TO SEE IF YOU CAN ARRANGE FOR A PLACE TO
TEMPORARILY RELOCATE WHILE THE HOME IS BEING GUTTED TO REPLACE ALL
WIRING AND CLEAN UP ANY FIRE DAMAGE. (IF IT DOES NOT BURN TO THE
GROUND). IF YOU DO NOT HAVE NEARBY RELATIVES, RESERVE A LONG TERM STAY
AT A MOTEL.

6. CALL YOUR INSURANCE AGENT AND FILE A CLAIM.

7. *DONT PANIC* HELP IS ON THE WAY.