Friday, July 27, 2018

PUC Stresses Utility Safety, Caution For Homeowners & Businesses Impacted By Flooding

The Public Utility Commission Friday encouraged homeowners and businesses impacted by recent flooding across the state to consider the following utility-related safety tips as they begin clean-up and recovery--
Flooding and electric power--
-- Avoid downed utility lines, along with flooded homes or businesses – submerged wires, power outlets or appliances may energize standing water.
-- Do not touch electric panels, outlets or appliances if you are wet or standing in water.
-- If your basement floods, do not enter unless you are sure the water is not in contact with a source of electricity. Call a qualified electrician to disconnect the power before you enter a flooded basement.
-- Utilities will inspect flooded areas and will assess when it is safe to restore service to their systems – but homeowners and businesses should work with licensed electricians regarding repairs to customer-owned lines and appliances.  
-- If the utility removed your electric meter and cut power to your home due to flooding, the utility may require you to have your system inspected by a licensed electrician before it restores power (contact your utility for any clarification).
-- Do not attempt to plug in or turn on any water-damaged appliances until they have been inspected by a qualified electrician and determined to be safe.
-- Consult professionals regarding the need to repair or replace any water-damaged devices.
Flooding and natural gas safety--
-- If you are outside a building and you smell gas, do not enter the building. Call 9-1-1 and your gas company from a safe location.
-- If you are inside a building and you smell gas, leave immediately. Call 9-1-1 and your gas company from a safe location.
-- If your home or business has flooded and any of your natural gas appliances (including furnaces, boilers, water heaters and dryers) have been affected, contact a licensed professional to clean, repair and test all appliances and pipes.
-- Do not attempt to restart natural gas appliances yourself – contact a professional.
-- If flood waters rose above your gas meter and regulator, contact your gas utility to inspect those systems before use.
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