Tips

Beware of electric shock dangers in flooded basements

When dealing with a flooded basement, it’s tempting to rush into cleanup mode. But it’s important to stay calm and assess the situation first. Not doing so could put you at risk of electric shock, and could even prove fatal.

Here are some tips to stay safe:

• If you have standing water in your basement, make sure OPPD or a licensed electrician removes your home’s electrical meter from its socket. This is the only way to ensure the electricity flow to your home is cut off.
• Don’t assume your circuit breaker will protect you. If it’s damaged by water, or is malfunctioning for some reason, it will not trip.
• Even after your home is disconnected, do not go back inside alone. It’s best to use the “buddy system” when walking in a water-logged area, especially a flooded basement. It’s dark and may be slippery and you may need help.
• Use a portable gas-powered generator for powering dewatering pumps when electrical safety is in question.
• Once you can pump out the water you can assess the damage. A qualified professional will need to inspect any electrical equipment impacted by the water. The equipment will most likely need to be repaired or replaced. This includes lights, switches, outlets, motors, fuse boxes and fuses, circuit boards, wires, and cables.
• Check with a heating/cooling contractor to see if your heating and cooling equipment can be salvaged.

If you have questions about the safety of your dwelling, contact your county’s emergency management agency.

*Sarpy County requests that customers who have no access to their homes due to flooding, and who would like to apply for an electrical inspection to get a permit for reconnection, visit their website to fill out a form.