Press Release

PUC, PEMA Recommend Safety First for Utility Service in Flood Damaged Homes

Published on 6/30/2006

Filed under: Electric Gas Water and Wastewater Telecommunications Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) remind residents returning to their homes to contact their utility company before restoring service and report potential hazards to the utility companies as quickly as possible.

       “Residents in the state’s flooded-damaged areas should put safety first as they return to their homes,” said Commission Chairman Wendell F. Holland. “Dangers may still exist even after the flood waters have receded. Once you return to a flood-affected home, do not attempt to restore utility service on your own. Call your utility for assistance.”

       “It is critical for residents that have been flooded to contact your utility to restore service,” PEMA Director James R. Joseph said.  “Utilities will send inspectors to make sure conditions are safe before restoring service.”  

       Residents can call the PUC at 1-888-PUC-FACT to report utility problems or to ask questions about their utility service. Representatives from the PUC's Bureau of Consumer Services will work with the customers and the utilities to resolve the problems.

Natural Gas Safety

       Never attempt to turn the natural gas back on yourself. Your natural gas utility will do it for you to make sure your service is safe and reliable. If you smell gas or hear a hissing or blowing sound, leave immediately and call 911 and your utility company. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside, if you can. If you shut off the gas supply at the main valve, you will need a professional to turn it back on. Do not smoke or use cellular phones, oil, gas lanterns, candles, or torches for lighting inside a damaged home until you are sure there is no leaking gas or other flammable materials present.

       Customers should not use natural gas appliances if they have been damaged by water. Call a qualified heating professional to check your furnace and any natural gas appliances that were submerged.

Electric Safety

       Residents should avoid downed utility lines and standing water as “hot wires” could exist below the water line. Report downed or damaged power lines to the utility company or emergency services. If your home has sustained flood or water damage, and you can safely get to the main breaker or fuse box, turn off the power. Do not turn off the power if you are wet or standing in water. If electrical service has not been disconnected at the home, avoid standing water, again there may be some hot wires below the water line.

       Submerged fuse boxes and all of their contents must be replaced. Allow time for drying and then spray them with contact cleaner or lubricant. Don't turn the electricity back on until the whole system has been checked by a licensed electrician.

Water and sewage systems

       If pipes are damaged, turn off the main water valve. Check with local authorities before using any water; the water could be contaminated. Pump out wells and have the water tested by authorities before drinking. Do not flush toilets until you know that sewage lines are intact.

      The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission ensures safe, reliable and reasonably priced electric, natural gas, water, telephone and transportation service for Pennsylvania consumers, by regulating public utilities and by serving as responsible stewards of competition. For recent news releases, or more information about the PUC, visit our Internet homepage www.puc.state.pa.us.

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