5 Tips on How to Stay Safe from Electrical Hazards During a Severe Storm
You never know when a storm could hit your city and with the damage and destruction severe weather brings, you want to guard your home as much as you possibly can. While you may already have a checklist of safety precautions to take during inclement weather, we’re here to provide you with tips specifically on how to avoid electrical hazards during severe storms.
Unplug All Electrical Appliances
While you may not think a storm is too severe, once your home goes out of power, there won’t be much for you to do to take extra precautions. Once you hear thunder roaring or if you see lightning, you should unplug all electrical appliances. Your appliances could suffer damage if connected to a circuit during a storm.
Avoid Contact with Running Water
Water is a conductor of electricity, which is exactly why you should stay away from it as much as possible during a storm. To minimize the risk of electrocution, you will want to avoid contact with water coming from plumbing, sinks, or faucets during a storm. You also do not want to bathe or shower during a storm.
Avoid Electrical Equipment in Contact with Circuits
If you keep some equipment plugged in (computers, corded phones, other appliances), do your best to avoid using them or being near them. Just like other appliances, they could suffer damage from lightning and the electrical circuit could burst or overheat.
Turn Off Utilities and Propane Tanks
You may not have to do this, but if a storm becomes severe enough, authorities may notify you to turn your utilities off. This may also include turning off your propane tank. This is mostly advised during flash flood warnings but is a good precaution to take nonetheless.
Keep Power Off in the Case of Flooding
Should your home be experiencing flooding, no matter how minor it may be, it is important to keep your power off until a professional can come in to inspect your home for safety, including appliances. Water can damage internal components in electrical appliances, so using them poses risks of shock and fire hazards.
Call an Electrician for Any Concerns About Your Home’s Electrical System
If you have any questions regarding your home and its electrical system after a storm, the best thing to do is to call a qualified electrician to come in and conduct a thorough inspection. Don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
