If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give much thought to your light switches. You flip them on, the room brightens and you go about your day. But those small plastic plates on your walls are gateways to your home’s electrical system. If something’s off, a switch can turn into a fire hazard. Here are six signs your light switch might be trying to tell you something important.

1. Strange smells

A burning, metalic or “fishy” odor near a light switch demands immediate attention. This smell typically means electrical components are overheating or insulation around wiring is beginning to melt. If you notice any unusual smells, turn off power to that circuit at the breaker box immediately.

2. Heat

A light switch should feel cool to the touch. Heat often indicates that the switch is overloaded or there’s a poor connection creating resistance. A dimmer may get slightly warm during normal use, but never hot enough to make you pull your hand away.

3. Discoloration

Brown or black marks around a switch signal overheating from faulty wiring, a loose connection or an overloaded circuit. While some fading is normal with age and sunlight, sudden or uneven darkening usually points to electrical trouble.

4. Unusual sounds

Your light switches should operate silently. If you hear popping, crackling or buzzing, electricity may be arcing inside. That arcing is a sign that wires aren’t making solid contact, which can create sparks and ignite surrounding materials.

5. Flickering or dimming lights

It’s easy to blame a flickering bulb on the bulb itself, but sometimes the switch is the culprit. Loose connections inside the switch can disrupt the flow of electricity, causing lights to dim or flicker. If changing or tightening the bulb doesn’t solve the issue, the switch could be wearing out.

6. Change in normal operations

A loose or wobbly switch often signals a worn-out internal mechanism or improper installation that has worsened over time. Alternatively, switches that stick or need too much force to flip, especially in older homes, also point to mechanical failure. While lubrication might temporarily fix a sticking switch, both loose and sticky switches suggest internal damage. Finally, if a switch does not trigger a light to go on and you are sure the bulb is functional, that may also mean the switch could be bad.

Paying attention to these warning signs protects your property and everyone who lives there. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s better to be cautious than to gamble with your safety. Turn off the power to the circuit and call a professional. After all, your home should be the place you feel most secure.