Severe storms and natural disasters can cause a variety of electrical safety hazards in and around our homes. Lightning, downed power lines, and floods are just a few of the serious safety concerns associated with storms. Unfortunately, many of these electrical safety hazards remain long after the storm itself has passed.
To help protect you from storm-related electrical hazards, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and Blachly-Lane Electric Cooperative are providing answers to common storm safety questions about:
- Lightning
- Power Lines
- Flooded Areas
- Wet Electrical Equipment
- Portable Generators
- Evacuation Procedures
Injuries & Calling for Help
If someone is injured by contact with a power line, call 911 and keep others away until help arrives. If a power line falls across or near your vehicle while you are in it, stay inside until help arrives. If you must exit, jump clear so that no part of your body is touching the car when you land. Keep both feet together, and shuffle or hop at least 30 feet away from the vehicle.