We’ve had a lot of rain recently here in Victoria BC. We could see more and we need to be prepared for the inevitable flooding that comes with it. While many homeowners have dealt with flooding before, one of the things that most homeowners forget about in a flood situation is electrical safety. It is important to remember that your home has many live wires and outlets that can become dangerous during a flood! To help keep you and your family safe, here are some pointers about flood damage and electrical safety:
Wait for the Professionals
When you see a flood, your first instinct may be to rush into the area to save your furnishings or belongings from becoming water damaged. It is important to remember that a flooded basement can potentially electrocute anyone who enters it, so it is best to always call the a utility company, fire department, or a licensed electrician before entering the flooded area. This way they can make sure that the home’s electrical meter has been removed from the socket which will disconnect any electricity running to your home. Even if your home has lost power, you are still in danger of electrocution.
Assume that all Flooded Electrical Equipment is Ruined
Once you clean up the initial damage, it is important to keep in mind that all electrical equipment in the area needs to be replaced, even if it looks dry. There are very few items in the home that are rated to survive full submersion in water, even briefly. The equipment that needs to be replaced will include things such as plastic-sheathed building wire, armored cable, circuit panels and breakers, fuse boxes, switches, outlets, motors, blowers, fans, lights, heaters, air conditioners, furnaces, and boilers. Depending on the situation, some items may be salvaged, but it is risky to continue running this type of equipment after a flood.
Have a Trusted Electrician Survey the Grounding and Bonding System
Within your home’s electrical system, there is a part designed to carry electrical current during normal operation, and a part designed to safely ground a current when something goes wrong. This second part is known as the grounding and bonding system, and it can become severely damaged during a flood situation. Only a licensed electrician can survey this system for potential damage and advise you of any replacements that need to be made.
Never Go into a Flooded Building Alone
Even after a building has been disconnected from the power grid, never enter a flooded building by yourself. It can be dark and slippery in the flooded area, and you never know when you might need help. Always have someone standing by if you need to enter a flooded building.
If you are dealing with a flood in your Victoria BC home, don’t hesitate to contact our trusted team of Victoria BC electricians right away.
