As Tropical Storm Debby approaches Florida, Duke Energy Florida is emphasizing the importance of safety and urging customers to heed the advice of emergency management officials. The storm is expected to bring high winds and heavy rainfall, potentially resulting in widespread power outages. Duke Energy recommends that Floridians take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their properties. “Safety guides everything we do at Duke Energy, but it’s especially important during storms like Tropical Storm Debby,” said Todd Fountain, Duke Energy Florida storm director. “Our crews stand ready to get the lights back on as soon as conditions allow, and in the meantime, we thank our customers for their continued preparation and vigilance.”
Restoring power after a storm can be extremely challenging for repair crews, as high winds and potential flooding can impact travel and work conditions, making repair work lengthy and difficult in some areas. Duke Energy has prepared an extensive list of safety protocols for customers to follow during the storm and subsequent power outages to ensure their safety. These protocols are outlined in detail below.
1. Avoid Walking, Swimming, or Driving Through Floodwaters
Floodwaters are unpredictable and can be very dangerous. It is crucial to avoid walking, swimming, or driving through any floodwaters. The water could be deeper than it looks, with strong currents that could sweep you off your feet or cause your vehicle to lose control. Additionally, floodwaters can contain debris, chemicals, and other hazardous materials that pose significant health risks. Flooded areas may also have downed power lines that could cause electric shock or electrocution.
Floodwaters also make it difficult to see obstacles or hazards on the ground, which can lead to accidents and injuries. As water levels rise, the structural integrity of roads and pathways can be compromised, increasing the likelihood of sinkholes or collapses. Therefore, it is essential to stay away from flooded areas and seek higher ground if necessary.
2. If Water Is Rising and Threatening Your Residence or Place of Business – or if You Evacuate Due to Flooding – Switch Off Your Power at the Circuit Breaker Panel or Fuse Box
Rising water levels can pose a serious threat to your home or business. If you notice water beginning to encroach on your property, it is essential to act quickly to prevent potential electrical hazards. Turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box before the water reaches it. This step is crucial in preventing electrical fires, electrocution, and damage to your electrical system.
If you need to evacuate due to flooding, ensure that you switch off the power before leaving. This precaution will protect your property and make it safer for electrical repair crews to restore power once conditions improve. It is equally important to ensure that all family members or occupants in the building are aware of the circuit breaker’s location and how to turn it off in an emergency.
3. Never Replace a Fuse or Touch a Circuit Breaker With Wet Hands or While Standing on a Wet or Damp Surface
Handling electrical equipment with wet hands or while standing on a wet surface significantly increases the risk of electrical shock. Always ensure that your hands are dry and that you are standing on a dry surface when replacing a fuse or touching a circuit breaker. If you are in a flooded or damp area, wait until conditions are safe before attempting any electrical work.
If you experience continuous electrical issues or suspect damage to your electrical system, it is best to call a licensed electrician to inspect and repair it. Avoid attempting repairs yourself, especially in wet or hazardous conditions. Professional electricians are trained to handle electrical repairs safely and can provide the necessary expertise to restore your electrical system without risking your safety.
4. If Your Residence or Place of Business Is Flooded, Duke Energy Cannot Reconnect Power Until the Electrical System Has Been Inspected by a Certified Electrician
When a residence or business is flooded, the electrical system is highly susceptible to damage. Duke Energy will not reconnect power until a certified electrician has inspected the system to ensure it is safe to operate. The electrician must check for any damage and make the necessary repairs to the electrical system. Once repairs are completed, the electrician must obtain verification from your local building inspection authority before power can be restored.
It is essential to follow this process to prevent potential electrical fires, shocks, or further damage to your property. Floodwaters can cause corrosion, short circuits, and other electrical issues that are not always immediately visible. Having a certified electrician conduct a thorough inspection ensures that all potential hazards are addressed before power is restored.
5. Keep Away From Power Lines That Have Fallen or Are Sagging
Power lines that have fallen or are sagging due to high winds and flooding pose significant risks. Treat all fallen or sagging power lines as though they are energized to avoid the danger of electrocution. Additionally, avoid any trees or limbs that are in contact with power lines, as they can also conduct electricity. Report all power line hazards to Duke Energy at 800.228.8485 or contact your local emergency services department or agency immediately.
In storm conditions, detecting downed power lines can be challenging, especially in poor visibility or flooded areas. Always err on the side of caution and assume any downed line is live. Keeping a safe distance from power lines and reporting them will help prevent accidents and enable swift response from emergency services.
6. If a Power Line Falls Across a Vehicle That You’re in, Stay in the Vehicle
In the event that a power line falls on your vehicle during the storm, it is crucial to stay inside the vehicle to avoid electrocution. The vehicle’s rubber tires can provide some insulation from the electrical current. Only exit the vehicle when it is absolutely necessary, such as in the case of a fire or other imminent life-threatening situation.
If you must exit the vehicle, do your best to jump clear without touching the vehicle and the ground simultaneously. Land on both feet and avoid making contact with the vehicle to prevent electric shock. Once clear of the vehicle, move away from the scene and call for emergency assistance.
7. Electric Current Passes Easily Through Water, So Stay Clear of Downed Power Lines and Electrical Wires
Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, which makes downed power lines and electrical wires in flooded areas particularly hazardous. Stay well clear of any downed lines and never attempt to touch or move them. Do not drive over or stand close to downed power lines, as they can cause severe injury or death.
In heavy rain and flooding, the visibility of downed power lines can be significantly reduced. Exercise caution when navigating through flooded areas and avoid large pools of standing water where downed lines could be concealed. Always back up and seek an alternative route if you encounter these hazards.
8. Implement the Following Safety Measures if You Experience a Power Outage
**A generator can be very useful during a power outage**, but it is crucial to operate it safely. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use. Be vigilant of utility crews working in your area and turn off the generator when crews are present. The electrical load from the generator can be hazardous to repair crews working on power lines.
**Disconnect or turn off nonessential electrical equipment** that might start automatically when power is restored to prevent overloading circuits. This precautionary measure will help ensure that your electrical system handles the restoration smoothly and without complications.
**Do not open freezers or refrigerators more than necessary** to help maintain the temperature of stored food. Each time these appliances are opened, they lose cold air, causing food to thaw faster. Refer to the FDA’s food safety guidelines for comprehensive information on preserving food during power outages.
**Do not use grills or other outdoor appliances** or equipment indoors for space heating or cooking. These devices can emit carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless gas that poses significant health risks. Ensure that you use these devices outdoors in well-ventilated areas only.
9. If You Lose Power, Text OUT to 57801, Report Online or Through the Mobile App, or Call 800.228.8485
In the event of a power outage, Duke Energy has provided several convenient ways for customers to report the issue. You can text OUT to 57801, report it online through the Duke Energy website, use the mobile app, or call 800.228.8485. Providing detailed information about your outage will help the repair crews assess the situation and prioritize restoration efforts accordingly.
Maintaining open communication with Duke Energy ensures that you receive timely updates on the status of power restoration. The company’s various reporting options are designed to offer quick, efficient ways to transmit outage information, streamlining the restoration process.
10. Receive the Most Up-To-Date Information About Restoration Efforts
Rising water levels pose a grave danger to your home or business. It’s imperative to act swiftly if you see water starting to invade your property to avoid potential electrical hazards. The first step is to turn off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box before water reaches it. This essential measure helps prevent electrical fires, electrocution, and damage to your electrical system.
In the unfortunate event that you have to evacuate due to flooding, make sure you switch off the power before you leave. This precautionary step not only protects your property but also ensures safer conditions for electrical repair crews to restore power once the situation improves. Equally important is making sure that all family members or building occupants know where the circuit breaker is located and how to turn it off in case of an emergency.
Moreover, having an emergency plan in place can make a significant difference in how effectively you can respond to sudden flooding. Regularly inspect your property for potential vulnerabilities to water damage and consider investing in flood barriers or sump pumps. If you live in a flood-prone area, staying informed about weather forecasts and flood warnings is crucial. Every second can make a difference when it comes to protecting your property and ensuring everyone’s safety. With these preparations, you can better manage the risks associated with rising water levels.
