SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) — Heavy rains often cause flooding in lowland areas, homes and basements. Safe Electricity reminds everyone to be alert to electrical equipment that could be energized and in contact with water, along with other potential hazards that create a serious danger of electric shock. Cleaning up and using water-damaged appliances also carry safety risks. As part of the “Teach Learn Care” TLC Campaign, Safe Electricity urges parents and other caregivers to make sure children are aware of these hazards as well.
“The prospect of an electrical accident is probably not top of mind when you’re dealing with a flooded basement, room or even outdoors,” said Molly Hall, executive director of Safe Electricity. “But it’s the first thing you should think of before you step foot in the water.” Safety measures to keep in mind include:
“A good safety measure is to have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) professionally installed on outlets,” Hall said. “These safety devices can cut off power instantly if there’s a problem.” GFCIs are recommended for outdoor outlets, and outlets near wet areas of the home such as kitchen, bath and laundry room. If time does not permit installation before a storm, you can purchase portable GFCIs from a hardware store. Accidents and fires involving electricity result in more than a thousand deaths, and ten thousand injuries each year. Prevention of electricity-related tragedies is the goal of Safe Electricity. # # # The Energy Education Council is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization dedicated to promoting electrical safety and energy efficiency. Established in 1952, the Council is headquartered within the University of Illinois Extension, and serves as a forum for diverse utility and energy organizations to collaborate on the mutually vital issues of efficiency and safety. Learn more at www.EnergyEdCouncil.org. |
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