Heavy rains often cause flooding in lowland areas, homes and basements. Flooding can happen quickly, thus taking steps to protect your family, home and electrical equipment before a flood — and knowing what to do afterward — can help prevent fires, shocks, injuries and costly damage.
Further, the prospect of an electrical accident is probably not top of mind when you’re dealing with a flooded basement, room, or even outdoors. However, it should be top of mind before you step foot in the water.
4 Nevers:
- Never drive or walk into flooded areas. It only takes 6 inches of fast-moving water to knock over and carry away an adult, and 12 inches to carry away a small car.
- Never step into a flooded basement. Water may be in contact with electrical outlets or appliances.
- Never turn off power at the breaker box if you have to stand in water to do so.
- Never use an electrical appliance that has been wet, without having a professional check it out first.
After A Flood:
- Have all electrical systems inspected. All electrical systems must be completely dry before returning them to service. If water has risen above the electrical outlets, baseboard heaters, furnace or electrical panel, wiring and outlets that have been submerged should be checked by a certified electrician and replaced if damaged. Water can corrode connections and create hidden shock risks.
- Have water-damaged devices examined. Don’t attempt to dry out and reuse electronics, extension cords or appliances that have been wet. If an electrical appliance has been in contact with water, have a professional check it out before using. It may need to be repaired or replaced.
