Flooding isn’t new to Floridians, considering that the state is a hurricane-prone zone. This disaster brings with it often irreparable damages to life, property, and infrastructure. There are also many risks to consider when facing a flooding event, such as the potential damages or injuries that could be incurred from submerged powerlines or electrical systems.
Although the risks increase with floods and other water disasters, electrical malfunctions and emergencies can occur at any time. The dangers of live electricity must not be taken lightly, which is why it is important to practice proper safety precautions. In this article, ServiceMaster by PWF discusses several electrical safety tips that should be practiced in case of flood and flood damage in Florida.
What is an electrical shock?
When a source of electricity, such as an open wire, comes in contact with the human body, an electrical shock occurs. The extent of the damage depends on many factors, such as the type and amount of current involved, the path the electricity took throughout the body, the victim’s overall health, and the speed by which treatment was applied.
An electrical shock may leave no injury at all. However, in most cases, it may result to the following signs and symptoms:
- Burns
- Numbness or a tingling sensation
- Vision or speech issues
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
- Muscle pain or contractions
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest
- Other internal damages and external injuries
- Death in severe cases
If you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of electrical shock, the first thing to do is to let go of the electrical source. Attend to burns by wrapping them with sterile gauze or a clean cloth if the former is not available. Do not use anything that may stick to the burnt area.
For minor symptoms, seek medical help. If the shock was severe, call 911 immediately.
How do I keep myself safe from electrical hazards during a flood?
Risks related to electrical systems after a flood are among the most severe. Keep these electrical safety tips in mind during a flooding event:
- Stay away from standing water especially when there are submerged electrical outlets or devices in it. It is highly possible that the water is already charged with electric current.
- Submerged power lines are another thing to look out for. If you notice damaged or downed powerlines, call your local power provider.
- Sparks and popping or buzzing noises after a flood may indicate an open electrical source. Stay away from the areas where they are present.
- Electrical fires emit an acrid smell or the odor of burning plastic. Watch out for these smells.
- If an appliance or electrical equipment has come into contact with water, do not operate them until they've been checked by a licensed electrician.
- Read and follow electrical safety precautions from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).
How do I keep myself safe from electrical hazards after a flood?
After a flood, there are still risks concerning electrical systems especially if they had prolonged exposure to floodwaters. As long as moisture is present, they remain vulnerable to mold and bacterial growth as well as structural weakness. Rust and corrosion could also damage these systems beyond repair, aside from the risk of electrical shocks or fires.
These issues are the reasons why it is important to have a certified electrician or inspector check your electrical system. A number of elements and components may have to be replaced, such as:
- Wiring, circuitry, switches and outlets
- Fixtures
- HVAC equipment and water heaters
- Major appliances, especially anything with a motor
- Electronics
After the hazards have been contained and the electrician has indicated that everything is safe, it’s time to call professional water damage restoration services in Florida to assess the extent of the water damage and create a plan for restoration and repair if necessary.
Get Water and Fire Damage Restoration Services from an IICRC-Certified Firm in Northeast Florida
No matter what the extent of the water or fire damage is after a flood, the team of experts at ServiceMaster by PWF has the skills, experience, and know-how to deal with it in the most effective and efficient way. We are dedicated to providing the best restoration experience possible, and work closely with insurance agents, brokers, adjusters, and the client to make sure the restoration process is hassle-free.
Call ServiceMaster by PWF at (866) 599-0871 or message us at https://www.servicemasterbypwf.com/contact-us/. We service Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, Dunedin, Largo, St. Augustine, Tarpon Springs, Ponte Vedra Beach, St. John, Jacksonville, Green Cove Springs, Fleming Island, Lakeside, and other parts of Pinellas, St. Johns, Duval, and Clay Counties.
