S.C. electric cooperatives offer advice on flood safety measures you can take to stay safe.
With weather forecasts predicting record rainfall over the next few days across much of South Carolina, the state’s electric cooperatives are issuing a reminder about possible flooding and electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water.
“Electricity and water never go together, and when you’re dealing with floodwater you’re in an especially risky situation,” said Todd Carter, vice president of loss control and training at The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina. “Keep safety in mind every step of the way.”
Here are some flood safety measures to keep in mind:
- If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 911. If you’re driving, and a power line falls across your vehicle, stay inside until help arrives.
- If floodwaters are approaching your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box and unplug appliances.
- If water covers electrical outlets or plugged-in cords, stay away. The same goes if you hear buzzing, snapping, crackling or popping sounds.
- Before entering a flood-damaged home or building, make sure the power is off and don’t attempt to reset circuit breakers until all water has receded.
If your home loses power, call your local electric cooperative to report the outage, and make sure your utility has your current phone number and an email address.
Additional safety and storm related information is available here.
