Avoid Electrical Hazards after a Hurricane or Flood

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

This is just one step in the water extraction process that SERVPRO of Toms River preforms to make it "Like it never even happened."

After a hurricane, flood or other natural disaster you need to be careful to avoid electrical hazards both in your home and elsewhere. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends these tips to stay safe from electrical hazards:

• Never touch a fallen power line. Always the power company to report fallen power lines.
• Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities.
• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water.
• If a power line falls across your car while you are driving, stay inside the vehicle and continue to drive away from the line. If the engine stalls, do not turn off the ignition. Warn people not to touch the car or the line. Call or ask someone to call the local utility company and emergency services. Do not allow anyone other than emergency personnel to approach your vehicle.
• If electrical circuits and electrical equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Do not enter standing water to access the main power switch. Call an electrician to turn it off.
• Never turn power on or off yourself or use an electric tool or appliance while standing in water. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician. All electrical equipment and appliances must be completely dry before returning them to service. Have a certified electrician check these items if there is any question.
• If you see frayed wiring or sparks when you restore power, or if there is an odor of something burning but no visible fire, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker.
• Consult your utility company about using electrical equipment, including power generators. Do not connect generators to your home’s electrical circuits without the approved, automatic-interrupt devices. If a generator is on line when electrical service is restored, it can become a major fire hazard and it may endanger line workers helping to restore power in your area.

Take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your loved ones after a hurricane, storm or flood. 

If you believe someone has had an electrical shock, do not touch them, call 911 immediately.

After your New Jersey property is safe from all electrical hazards, call SERVPRO of Toms River to begin the water damage cleanup and restoration. For more information on water and storm damage cleanup, call us 24/7 at 732-349-9898.