Electricity safety during floods

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - If you can see that flood water may enter your home, switch off the main power supply immediately before the water even gets into the house.

Do not switch the power on again after the flood until a qualified person has checked that it is safe to do so.

If possible, unplug electronic equipment before the storm arrives. Avoid contact with electrical equipment and cords during storms.
Never use electric appliances or touch electric wires, switches or fuses when you're wet or when you're standing in water.
Stay away from fallen trees or broken branches near a power line, and do not attempt to remove it before the line has been isolated and made safe by authorised personnel.
Never step into a flooded basement or other room if water may be in contact with electrical wall plugs, appliances or cords.
Don't touch or swim in rivers or streams, unless absolutely necessary, as power lines may have fallen into them and electrified the water.
Never try to turn off the power at the main box if you must stand in water to do so. If you can't reach your main box safely, call Eskom or your municipality shut off power at the meter.