Be Prepared for Electrical Dangers

Natural events such as storms, wild fires, and hurricanes require preparedness, as do blackouts and other events. In addition to an emergency kit, you also need knowledge and information to stay safe in chaotic times. Safe Electricity wants you to understand the dangers your electricity can pose in emergency situations.

“Unfortunately, unplanned events—especially weather— can damage our electrical system. Downed power poles, stray lines, and other damaged equipment could all be fatally dangerous,” says Molly Hall, executive director of the Safe Electricity program . “Knowing how to avoid electrical risks is an important part of preparedness.”

Safe Electricity has the following tips to help you prepare for and stay safe in emergencies:

Keep the electrical system in your home in good working order. This will help keep your electrical system stable in normal conditions and prevent accidents in extreme ones. A qualified electrician can inspect your home’s electricity and make recommendations.
If there is a power outage, unplug electronics. The power may come back in spikes, which can destroy electronics.
Stay at home, if possible. It can be hard to spot electrical dangers in the debris left by a storm. Stay in the house until you are certain it is safe outside.
If your home is severely damaged or on fire, you need to leave. If you have time, turn off electricity at the box and natural gas at the meter before you go. This will make it safer when you can return home. Never turn gas service back on. That is a job for utility professionals.
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, get out of the house. If the smell is strong, leave immediately without touching any switches. Once outside, call 911, and notify your gas utility.
- Do not enter a flooded basement or stand in water to turn off electricity. Standing water may be energized, and can cause electrocutions.
- Always treat electrical equipment as though it is energized and dangerous. Do not go near damaged electrical equipment, and warn others to stay away.
- Be prepared for power outages. Have important electronics charged, and keep a battery operated radio and flashlights on hand.
- Be careful with water damaged electronics. They may spark or overheat. Have an electrician verify that electronics are safe to use if they have been damaged by water.
- Elevate your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if you are at high flood risk.
- Conserve electricity. Even though you still have power, your utility may be struggling to provide electricity to all its customers. Use only the electricity you need.