After the storm: Floodwater safety

Flooding forces homeowners to ask many difficult questions about water-damaged electrical equipment in their houses: Can I use appliances after they dry out? Are circuit breakers and fuses safe to use? Will I need to replace my electrical wiring?

Floodwater contaminants can create serious fire hazards if electrical wiring and equipment have been submerged in water. Even with professional cleaning and drying, sediments and toxins are difficult to remove.

As families begin to clean up after a flood, there may be hidden electrical hazards. This is not a do-it-yourself project! Before beginning, have a qualified electrician check the house wiring, assess other damages and proceed with repair work. Then, follow these important safety tips:

Read More: http://www.ul.com/global/eng/pages/offerings/perspectives/regulator/electrical/additionalresources/flooding/