If your microwave almost caught fire and there is possible soot around the outlet, it's essential to take immediate action to ensure safety. In this situation, it's best to call a licensed electrician right away. Here's what you should do:
Safety First: Your safety and the safety of others in your household should be your top priority. If there is any sign of a fire or burning smell, immediately turn off and unplug the microwave oven from the power outlet.
Do Not Use the Outlet: If there is visible soot around the outlet, it indicates that there was likely overheating or arcing at that location. For safety reasons, avoid using the outlet until it has been inspected and repaired by a qualified electrician.
Turn Off the Circuit: If you can, turn off the circuit that supplies power to the outlet where the microwave was plugged in. This will prevent any potential electrical issues from escalating while you wait for the electrician.
Call an Electrician: Contact a licensed electrician to inspect the outlet, the microwave oven, and the surrounding electrical wiring. Explain the situation to the electrician and let them know that there was an incident of possible overheating or fire.
Avoid Using the Microwave: Until the electrician has assessed and repaired any electrical issues, refrain from using the microwave oven. Using a faulty or damaged appliance could pose a serious safety risk.
Fire Extinguisher (if necessary): If there was an actual fire, and it has not been fully extinguished, use a fire extinguisher appropriate for electrical fires to put it out. If the fire has been extinguished, do not attempt to clean up the soot or debris yourself; wait for the electrician to assess the situation.
Remember, dealing with electrical issues can be dangerous and should be left to trained professionals. A licensed electrician will have the expertise and knowledge to identify the root cause of the problem and make any necessary repairs or replacements to ensure your electrical system is safe and up to code.