This guide explains how to stay safe around electricity after a disaster, when water and damage can make wires, outlets, and appliances extremely dangerous. It covers what to do inside and outside the home, and what to do if someone is suffering an electric shock.
Electrocution can be deadly — this guide helps you avoid serious injury and keep yourself safe.
Outside the home:
- Never touch a fallen power line - even if they look safe.
- Stay away from power lines during clean-up.
- Don’t walk or drive through floodwater if power lines are down.
- If a power line falls on your car:
- Stay inside. Drive away slowly if you can.
- If stuck, don’t touch anything metal.
- If the engine stalls, do not turn off the ignition.
- Warn others to stay away and call for help.
Inside the home
If water has touched electrical outlets or appliances:
- Do NOT turn power on or off yourself.
- Stay out of standing water near electricity.
- Call an electrician if possible.
Don’t use electric tools or plug anything in until it’s completely dry and inspected.
If you see sparks, smell burning, or hear buzzing when power is restored:
- Shut off power at the main breaker immediately.
Generators must never be connected directly to home circuits without proper devices — they can cause fires or injure power workers.
First Aid
If you believe someone has had electric shock take the following steps:
- Do NOT touch the person — they may still be in contact with electricity.
- Call for emergency medical help.
- Turn off the power source if you can, or move it using dry wood, cardboard, or plastic
- Once safe, check breathing and pulse. Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if needed.
- If the person is faint or pale or shows other signs of shock, lay the person down and raise their legs.
- Don't touch burns, break blisters, or remove burned clothing. Get medical help — internal burns are possible.