Spring is coming, which means storms. Use these tips to keep you and your home safe during three aspects of storms: lightning, flooding and downed power lines.

Lightning:

  • If you don’t have surge protectors, unplug your electronics. Keep a lamp on so you will know when the power comes back on.
  • Invest in surge protectors: Surge protectors protect your electronics from sudden surges in voltage caused by things like lightning striking a power line. Just remember to get a surge protector and not a power strip, and replace your surge protectors after serious electrical events, or every few years. For more information click here.
  • Avoid contact with plumbing and electrical equipment during the storm.

Flooding:

  • If you are in danger of flooding, unplug everything.
  • Do not go into flooded areas of your home. Submerged cords and outlets can electrify the water.
  • Do not use any appliances that have been wet until you’ve had them checked by an electrician, they could be dangerous.
  • Have an electrician check your home’s electrical system if it has been flooded. For more information click here. 

Downed Power Lines:

  • Do not touch downed power lines
  • Do not drive over downed power lines
  • Stay at least 10 feet away and call 911 to report the downed line

For information on generators, click here. 

For information on what to do during a power outage click here.