If your home or business is flooded, THINK SAFE AROUND ELECTRICITY!

It is important to remember that water and electricity DO NOT mix.  If you find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance of having water in your home or business, it is important to think before you act.  We know you are in a hurry to get things back to normal, but if water levels have risen to the level of baseboard heaters or electricity outlets, it’s possible the water is energized and potentially lethal. Water could also come through your electrical panel. If you find yourself in any of these circumstances – STAY AWAY!

The first thing you should do if you are concerned water may have interacted with an electrical source in your home or business is to SHUT OFF POWER. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you make contact with water in order to attempt to shut off power. To guarantee there is no power running through your home, power must be disconnected through your meter. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DO THIS YOURSELF. A certified electrician can help, or you can call us at 1-800-474-5711. When in doubt…reach out, we are here to help.

It is also important to be smart outside of your home.  After storms, high winds may have caused downed power lines and trees falling into lines. Always assume downed lines are energized. Electricity and water is just as dangerous outside as it is inside.  Be vigilant and look for downed lines. If you find one STAY AWAY and call us immediately.  For more information about downed lines visit http://www.newfoundlandpower.com/ElectricalSafety/DownedPowerLines/Default.aspx

THINK SAFE. LIVE SAFE.

John Curran
Manager, Safety and Environment