Flooding can occur anywhere, but electrical hazards may linger after floodwaters recede. Learn how to take precautions before, during and after flooding takes place with these tips from esfi.org.
- DO NOT go near any downed power lines, especially if there is standing water nearby.
- If your home experienced flooding, keep the power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
- Have an electrician inspect electrical appliances that have been wet, and do not turn on or plug in appliances unless an electrician tells you it is safe.
- A trained professional may be able to recondition some devices while others will require replacement.
- Do not touch a circuit breaker or replace a fuse with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface.
Knowing the danger of flooding outside of your home is just as important. Nearly half of all flood fatalities occur in vehicles and a vehicle can easily be carried away by two feet of water reports esfi.org. In the past five years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods.