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Be Aware of Electrical Dangers During Flooding

Wednesday | March 15, 2023
All News

As all the snow we have received begins to melt, it increases the possibility of flooding. Flooding and electricity do not mix, and everyone needs to be aware of the dangers. 

According to the Federal Emergency Disaster Agency (FEMA), floods are one of the most common hazards in the United Sates. The prospect of an electrical accident is probably not top of mind when you are dealing with flooding in your home, but it is the first thing you should think of before you step into a flooded area. If there is any danger the water could be energized because of contact with electrical equipment, do not enter the area. You could be in serious danger of electrocution.

Here are some additional suggestions from Safe Electricity to help keep you and your family safe during a flood:

  • Never attempt to turn off power at the breaker box if you must stand in water to do so. If you cannot reach your breaker box safely, call your electric utility to shut off power at the meter.
  • Never use electric appliances or touch electric wires, switches, or fuses when you are wet or when you are standing in water.
  • Keep electric tools and equipment at least 10 feet away from wet surfaces. Do not use electric yard tools if it is raining or the ground is wet.
  • Never drive into flood waters because it is very difficult to tell by sight how deep floodwaters are. It only takes six inches of water for your car to lose control and stall. Your car could be swept out of control and into electrical dangers.
  • Also, do not enter flood waters on foot or in boat. Flood waters hold unknown dangers. The water could be energized or could sweep you into electrical equipment. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
  • If you see downed power lines or damaged equipment, stay away, warn others to stay away, and notify the authorities.

If you are in a flood prone area, one action you can take to be better prepared is to have a sump pump with a back-up battery in case the power goes out and an alarm to alert you of flooding. Additionally, you can elevate the water heater, electric panel, and furnace to keep them clear of potential flood waters.

Safe Electricity also recommends installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on outdoor outlets and indoor outlets in areas of the house that are prone to flooding such as the basement. GFCIs should also be installed in rooms with heavy water use such as the laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen.

For more information on avoiding electrical hazards, visit SafeElectricity.org.

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Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative

PO Box 100

10401 Lystul Road

Rosholt, WI  54473

 

Email: cwec@cwecoop.com

Phone: 715-677-2211

Toll Free: 800-377-2932

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Fax: 715-677-4333

Office Hours: Monday thru Friday

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©2025 Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative. A Touchstone Energy Cooperative.

  • About Us
    • About Us
    • Board of Directors
    • Cooperative Principles
    • Capital Credits
    • Political Action
    • Member Involvement
    • Corporate Information
    • Employment Opportunities
    • Contact Us
    • History of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative
  • Electric Service
    • Service Map
    • New Construction
    • Conversion Guide
    • Service Disconnection
    • Service Requirements
      • CT Cabinets/Meters
      • New Service Hookup
      • Wiring Affidavit
      • CWEC Electric Service Manual
    • Diggers Hotline
    • Outdoor Lighting
    • Vegetation Management
    • Tree Work Request
    • Power Line Safety
  • Billing
    • Smart Meter Information
    • Pay Your Bill
    • Payment Options
    • New Member Application
    • Rates & Fees
    • Understanding Your Bill
    • Energy Assistance
    • Address Change
    • Member Contact Information
    • Meter Tampering Policy
    • Outage Notification
  • Member Services
    • Dairy Farm Rewiring Loan and Grant Program
    • Co-op Connections Program
    • Operation Round Up
    • STEAM Grant
    • Scholarship Opportunities
    • Youth Leadership Conference
    • Energy Audits
    • Energy Conservation Rewards
    • Load Management
    • Gift of Light
    • Life-Support Equipment
  • Products
    • GenerLink Transfer Switch
  • Renewables
    • Complimentary Electric Vehicle Charging Station
    • CHARGE EV
    • New Distribution Generation System Procedures
    • Solar Demonstration System Output
    • Solar Demonstration System
  • Community
    • Economic Development
    • Electric Demonstrations
    • Emergency Responder Safety Tips
    • Toys for Tots
    • Tree-Based Energy
    • Community Events Calendar
  • News
    • 2025 Annual Meeting
    • Emergency Management Contacts
    • 2025 Member Photo Contest
    • Electrical Safety Poster Contest
    • 2024 "Life in Rural Wisconsin" Winning Photos
    • Safety Before & After Storms
    • Scam Alert
    • Electric Line Newsletter
    • Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
    • Energy Efficiency Rebates Available
    • Food Pantry Collection
    • Momentary Interruptions