Water + Electricity = DANGER!

You may not be thinking about electrocution risks when heavy rains and flooding hit, but it should be at the top of the list! Be alert to electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water, creating a serious danger of electrocution.

Safety measures to keep in mind include:

• Never step into a flooded basement or other room if water may be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances or cords.
• Never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. If you cannot reach your breaker box safely, call your electric utility to shut off power at the meter.
• Never use electric appliances or touch electric wires, switches or fuses when you are wet or when you are standing in water.
• If an electrical appliance has been in contact with water, have a professional check it out before it is used. It may need to be repaired or replaced.
• Make sure outdoor outlets and outlets in wet areas of the home, such as bath, kitchen and laundry room are equipped with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). These devices can cut off power quickly if there is a problem.
• Keep electric tools and equipment at least 10 feet away from wet surfaces. Do not use electric yard tools if it is raining or the ground is wet.