Update #12: City Urges Residents to Heed Post-Flooding Electrical Safety Advisories

Update #12: City of St. Petersburg Urges Residents to Heed Post-Flooding Electrical Safety Advisories

September 27, 2024- In the aftermath of flooding from Hurricane Helene, residents are encouraged to heed electrical safety advisories if they have experienced flooding on their property.

Electrical Safety Post-Flooding

• Stay Informed and Seek Professional Assistance: Before attempting to enter your property, contact your local utility company to ensure it is safe to do so. If you suspect electrical damage or are unsure about the safety of your electrical system, enlist the services of a licensed electrician to assess the situation. Safety should be the top priority during this process.

• Do Not Touch Wet Electrical Equipment: Water and electricity are a deadly combination. If you come across electrical equipment that has been submerged or is wet, do not touch it. Standing water can carry an electric current, even if it appears calm. Contact a professional to assess the equipment and determine whether it needs to be repaired or replaced.

• Turn Off Power Before Entering: If your home has been flooded, do not enter until the power has been turned off at the main circuit breaker or fuse box. If you're unable to safely access these areas, consult a professional to perform this task. Do not rely solely on the fact that the power is out in your neighborhood, as localized systems might still be active.

• Inspect Wiring and Outlets: Once the power is safely disconnected, inspect your electrical wiring, outlets, and appliances for signs of damage. Look for discoloration, charring, or exposed wires. If you notice any of these issues, refrain from using the equipment and seek professional help.

• Avoid Using Extension Cords: While cleaning up, avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution for powering devices. They are not designed for prolonged use and can pose fire and shock hazards. If additional power sources are needed, consult a licensed electrician to install them properly.

• Wait for Approval Before Restoring Power: After your property has been deemed safe by a qualified professional, you can begin the process of restoring power. Follow their guidance closely and avoid attempting any repairs yourself unless you are trained to do so.

• Educate Family Members: Ensure that everyone in your household is aware of the importance of electrical safety, especially children. Keep them away from any electrical equipment, outlets, or cords that may have been compromised by the flood.

Report Outages

Report all power outages directly to Duke Energy at 800-228-8485.

Stay Informed

• Sign up for Alert St. Pete at pinellas.gov/alert. View the latest storm information from the National Hurricane Center at nhc.noaa.gov.

• Follow @StPeteFL on social media channels for storm updates specific to St. Pete.