Santa Cruz, CA is well-known for its pleasant weather, but when storms do hit the area, they can be intense. Strong storms produce a number of electrical hazards that can be devastating to your health or property, and it can take a long time to recover from the damage. The following tips from the experts at Fisher Electric will help you stay safe from electrical hazards when the storms come.
Do Not Use Corded Phones
Corded phones can be very dangerous during storms with lightning, so you should wait to use one until after the storm has passed. If lightning hits your home, it could travel through the wires into the corded phone, and if the phone is up to your ear at the time, it could result in a massive surge of electricity going through your body or an explosion close to your head.
While surge protection on electrical panels can reduce the risk, it cannot eliminate the danger completely. Cellular phones and cordless phones that are not plugged in do not present the same threat and can safely be used while a storm rages.
Stay Out of Water
Water is highly conductive for electricity, so being in contact with any water during an intense storm can be hazardous. Avoid washing dishes, taking a shower, or lounging in the bath during the storm as the electricity from lightning can travel through metal pipes and fixtures into the water. Stay out of standing water in your home or your yard as well, as electricity can travel considerable distances through standing water.
Avoid Downed Power Lines
Fallen power lines can kill in the blink of an eye, delivering strong jolts of electricity into anything near them. It is not even necessary to touch one to be in danger, as electricity can arc across the air or travel through the wet ground with ease. It is best to stay as far away from downed power lines as you can, and you should contact your local power company immediately so they can come fix the problem before anyone gets hurt.
Let Wet Electrical Equipment Dry Before Using
Electrical equipment that has gotten wet in a storm can be hazardous to use if there is still water inside of it. Water can short out motors, damage circuits, increase the risk of sparking, and affect safety features in ways that make the device dangerous. You should wait until the equipment has dried completely to assess the situation and see if the object still works properly.
Conclusion
It is important to be able to recognize the electrical hazards associated with storms so you can keep yourself and your family safe from them. If you believe that a storm has damaged your electrical system, call the professionals at Fisher Electric today for an inspection. We are ready to take care of all your electrical needs.
