Heat or smoke near outlets, switches, wiring or the electrical panel.
Smoke near service equipment can involve high-current connections that should not be approached or opened. If there is active fire, heavy smoke or immediate danger, move to safety and call 911 first.
A burning odor that appears only when an appliance runs may still involve the outlet, circuit or connection serving it. If the correct breaker can be reached safely, switch it off and leave the damaged equipment untouched.
Discoloration around a receptacle or switch can show that overheating began before smoke became visible. If the correct breaker can be reached safely, switch it off and leave the damaged equipment untouched.
