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Flooding and Electrical Safety

Flooded North Carolina town following hurricane-driven rain.

Safety is our first concern after every storm. According to the American Red Cross, electrocutions are the second-leading cause of death during and after floods. Duke Energy offers the following electrical safety guidelines when coping with flooding:

  • If rising water threatens your home or business – or if you evacuate due to flooding – turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.
  • Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed electrical lines.
  • Don't drive over – and don't stand near – downed electrical lines.
  • Never replace a fuse or touch a circuit breaker with wet hands, or while standing on a wet or damp surface.
  • If your home or business is flooded, Duke Energy cannot reconnect power until the electrical system has been inspected by a licensed electrician. If there is damage, an electrician will need to make necessary repairs and obtain verification from your local building inspection authority before power can be restored.
Please refer to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for flood preparation and safety.