The recent ice storm in Peterborough has already left many homes and businesses managing power outages, disrupting daily operations and activities.
With significant rainfall expected and frozen ground, the risk of flooding is heightened as rain cannot absorb, and outdoor sump pumps remain inoperable for those without power. As severe weather continues this week, including potential flooding, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) warns of an increased risk of electric shock if water reaches electrical systems, which can result in serious injury or death.
Knowing the proper safety precautions is crucial to protecting homeowners, first responders, and utility workers. On behalf of the ESA, here are important safety tips:
Protect your home:
· Unplug and relocate electrical appliances above the expected floodwater level. Do not reuse items that have been exposed to floodwater.
· Store extension cords indoors, above the potential flood line.
· If evacuating, turn off the power by setting the main switch to the “off” position before leaving.
Stay safe if your electrical system is affected by water:
· Avoid entering your basement if water is above electrical outlets, baseboard heaters, furnaces, or near the electrical panel.
· If your electrical system is damaged, power may not be restored until an assessment and repairs are made.
· ESA recommends hiring a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) to evaluate the safety of your system before power is restored. Find an LEC near you at findacontractor.esasafe.com.
Stay safe with portable generators:
· Never use a generator indoors. It produces deadly carbon monoxide, so place it outside, away from windows, doors, or vents.
· When purchasing a generator, ensure it has a Canadian certification mark from an approved agency.
· Never connect a portable generator directly to your home’s electrical system. It could cause power to flow back into the grid, which could harm you, utility workers, or the grid.
· To permanently connect a generator to your home, file a permit with ESA, and have a Licensed Electrical Contractor handle the installation.
Stay 10 meters away from downed powerlines:
· Downed powerlines may still be live and pose a danger. Keep at least 10 metres (the length of a school bus) away. Electricity can travel through water and the ground around powerlines.
· Call 911 and your local electricity provider to report downed lines.
· Wait for the power to be disconnected or the lines to be repaired before starting yard cleanup, as downed powerlines may be hidden under debris or branches.
The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) also has experts available to discuss electrical safety tips to keep safe.
Additional safety tips can also be found at ESAsafe.com/IceStorms.
