Electrical Safety Tips for Hurricane Weather

One of the main concerns with severe weather is keeping yourself and your family safe. With hurricane season upon us, Big Bags USA® wants to help you be better prepared for natural disasters. In today's blog, we'll address safety concerns related to electrical issues. The high winds, extreme rains and flooding caused by hurricanes present many unique dangers. Keep reading to learn how to avoid post-storm electrical hazards and prevent electrically-related injuries and property loss. Because electrical hazards may linger after flood waters recede, it's important to take precautions before, during and after flooding from a hurricane takes place.

Preparing for a Hurricane


When a hurricane is headed towards the coastline of the area you live, there are a variety of things you can do to prepare. By acting before the storm hits, you can prevent or at least reduce the possible electrical dangers to you, your home and your property.
  • Fill up your vehicles gas tank before a storm hits. If electrical power is lost, gas stations may be unable to pump gas, leaving you stranded somewhere. 
  • Unplug your appliances and power cords from outlets in advance of severe weather to protect them from power surges. 
  • Test your home's carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms to ensure they're functioning.  
  • Follow any directions from the authorities to turn off utilities. If you're advised to switch off the main power source to your home, be sure to flip each breaker and then turn off the main breaker. You may also need to shut off the main valve for your homes gas and water.

Hurricane Weather


Once the storm has hit, and you're in an area experiencing high winds and/or heavy rains, be sure to follow the safety tips below. If you have the ability to evacuate before the severe weather hits, that's the best way to stay safe.
  • Don't try to outrun a storm. Instead, seek shelter in a house or other permanent enclosed space. 
  • Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass. 
  • Use battery-powered lanterns and flashlights as a source of light. Candles are a fire hazard. 
  • Never operate a generator or other outdoor appliances inside your home or in other enclosed or partially enclosed spaces, including the garage.
  • Use a battery-operated radio to stay informed about important safety updates.

Recovering from a Hurricane  


After the severe weather from the hurricane has subsided, there are a few safety precautions you should take to make sure your home and property is safe to re-enter.
  • Do not touch a circuit breaker or replace a fuse with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface. 
  • Use caution around flooded areas. Be aware that submerged outlets or electrical cords may energize standing water. Do not enter a flooded area until it has been determined safe to do so by a professional. 
  • If flood waters reached the level of electrical outlets, contact a licensed electrician before turning on the power and attempting to use electricity in the home. 
  • Prior to use, have a qualified electrician inspect electrical appliances that have been wet, and do not turn them on or plug them in unless an electrician tells you it's safe. A trained professional may be able to recondition some devices while others will require replacement.
  • Never touch a fallen power line or drive/walk through standing water if a downed power line is nearby. Report any downed power lines to your local authorities. 

Hurricane Safety with Big Bags USA®


One of the biggest concerns with hurricanes is the severe flooding that they can cause. Keep those flood waters from entering your home or business and posing the threat of electrical hazards by investing in a flood barrier product such as Big Bags USA®. Our innovative flood control systems provide lightening fast flood protection at a fraction of the cost normally associated with rapid deployed systems. Give us a call at 1-800-337-0537 to learn more about how we can help your community be prepared for flooding this hurricane season!

If you have an immediate need for our systems, or have any questions for us, please Call us Toll Free at 1-800-337-0537 or visit www.BigBagsUSA.com.


D.R.I.P.S.
Disaster Relief & Innovative
Protection Systems, LLC
(573) 480-6699

Let's Connect!

ALWAYS READY TO HELP LOCAL, STATE, & FEDERAL AGENCIES ... BE PREPARED!

Location: Camdenton, MO 65020, USA

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