With sparking and a burning smell, I would be concerned with the
insulation on the wiring. If you are confident that it has not been
impaired, or that you can shorten the wire to where the insulation is
good, have a go at it. If you are uncertain, call an electrician.

DaveR wrote:

I turned on a light switch and noticed a few small sparks inside the
switch as I turned it on. No big deal, or so I thought.

After the lights were on for awhile I there was an 'electric burning'
smell. Sure enough the switch was hot to the touch.

Is it likely that the switch itself is bad and that replacing it will
solve the problem? (That I can easily do myself.)

Or could it be a more serious problem for which I should call an
electrician?

Thanks in advance for any help...


--
Dave