It's been a while, hasn't it.
Hope he did check for dead.
What test was he going to do and who advised it.
Just to be clear.
Martin
If you're being serious there, then get a grip.
If you're trying to be funny, then it's not.
What I am getting at is that if you send an amateur off to sort out an electrical problem and they don't come back, then questions need to be asked about the wisdom of suggesting that course of action.
Testing for dead is a serious business and there is no getting away from that fact.
My advise now really would be to isolate the circuit now we def have a burning smell and get it checked professionally. I don't say this just to help line the pockets of electricians but in order to avoid electrical fires in a house.
I already have several grips as it happens.
Martin