ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) – With forecasts predicting rounds of rainfall in the area over the coming days and flood warnings in effect, Ameren is urging its customers to exercise extreme caution if they encounter flooding in their vicinity, whether around their homes, businesses, or communities.
The potential for rivers and streams to overflow is a significant concern, prompting Ameren to advise customers to remain vigilant.
“As is common during springtime, sudden heavy rainfall or continuous rain over several days can lead to flooding, posing potential safety risks,” stated Launders Wince, senior director of regional operations at Ameren Missouri. “The combination of electricity and water can create various safety hazards for customers.”
While dealing with a flooded basement or yard, the possibility of an electrical mishap may not be foremost in your thoughts. However, taking a moment to consider the proximity of water to electric service or your interaction with both water and electricity can significantly contribute to keeping you and your family safe.
Ameren has outlined six key tips to help customers stay safe during spring storms:
- Never enter a flooded basement or any area where water may still be in contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or cords.
- Avoid attempting to shut off power at the breaker box if you have to stand in water to do so. Instead, contact Ameren Missouri at 800.552.7583 or Ameren Illinois at 1.800.755.5000 to request power shut-off at the meter.
- Maintain a distance of at least 10 feet between electric tools and equipment and wet surfaces.
- Refrain from using electric yard tools during rainfall or when the ground is wet.
- If an electrical appliance has come into contact with water, have it inspected by a professional before use.
- Likewise, have a qualified electrician address any damaged electrical equipment.
If you notice flooding near your residence or business, reach out to Ameren to have the electricity shut off before the water reaches electrical service equipment. There’s also a possibility that service may be preemptively turned off at the behest of local authorities when floodwaters pose a threat to a community.
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Consider having ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) installed professionally on outlets, especially those outdoors or near wet areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room. These safety devices can instantly cut off power in case of an issue.
Additionally, driving during flooding can pose significant safety risks on roads. Never attempt to drive through flooded areas, as six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, a foot of water can cause most vehicles to float, and two feet of rushing water can sweep away a vehicle. If your vehicle collides with a utility pole or you witness such an incident involving a downed power line, remain in your vehicle and promptly call 911 to report the situation.
Ameren offers a range of safety tips for customers, covering topics such as severe weather preparedness, safety around water and electricity, natural gas leak detection, electrical fire safety, call-before-you-dig procedures, and general safety reminders. These safety tips can all be accessed at Ameren.com/Safety.
