The short answer
Turn off the Power Safely
If water has reached your outlets, appliances, or the breaker panel, do not touch anything electrical. The safest step is to shut off the main breaker, but only if the panel is dry and you are not standing in water. If you cannot reach the panel safely, leave the power on and call a professional for guidance.
For a flooded basement or ground floor, assume that any circuit could be live. Water can travel along wires, through walls, and under floors. Even a damp floor can conduct current from a live wire. Your priority is to keep everyone away from the area until the power is off and the system is evaluated.
- Do not touch a switch, outlet, or appliance if the floor is wet.
- Keep children and pets away from the flooded area.
- Use a dry wooden stick or plastic tool to move wet debris, never metal.
- If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas utility from outside.
- Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries handy for the dark.
Why Water and Electricity Are Dangerous
Water is a conductor, meaning it lets electricity flow through it easily. Even clean water from a pipe or storm can carry current. The danger is not just from visible puddles; moisture inside walls, under floors, and in outlets can create shock risks for days after the flood.
The human body is also a conductor. When you touch a live wire or a wet appliance, the current can pass through you to the ground, causing serious injury or death. That is why the first rule after any flood is to treat every electrical component as potentially live until a professional has checked it.
What a Professional Checks
A qualified electrician should inspect your entire electrical system after a flood. They will look at the breaker panel, outlets, switches, wiring, and any appliances that were exposed to water. They may use a moisture meter to check for hidden dampness in walls and ceilings.
The electrician will determine which parts can be dried and reused and which need replacement. For example, outlets and switches that were submerged usually need to be replaced. Wiring that was wet may need to be replaced if it shows corrosion or damage. You should not attempt these repairs yourself unless you are trained and the power is off.
Dealing with Flooded Appliances
Appliances that were under water, such as a washing machine, dryer, or refrigerator, should be unplugged and left off until an electrician or appliance professional checks them. Water can damage motors, switches, and wiring inside the appliance, creating a shock hazard even after it looks dry.
Do not turn on an appliance to test it. A short circuit can cause a fire or shock. If the appliance was plugged in during the flood, the outlet also needs inspection. In many cases, the safest choice is to replace water-damaged appliances, especially those with electronic controls.
Cleaning and Drying Safely
Once the power is off and the electrician has given the all-clear, you can begin cleaning and drying the flooded area. Use rubber boots and gloves, and keep your hands dry. Remove wet carpets, padding, and drywall that may hold moisture and promote mold growth.
For a thorough job, consider hiring local water damage pros to help with extraction and structural drying. They can remove standing water and use dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out walls and floors. This reduces the chance of mold and protects your home's structure. If you live in Layton, keep your electrician's number handy for future storms.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I use a generator after a flood?
Only if the generator is placed outdoors, far from windows and doors. Never run it inside a garage or basement. Connect appliances directly to the generator with heavy-duty cords, and avoid overloading it. Have the generator inspected if it was submerged.
How long does it take for a flooded house to dry out?
Drying can take days to weeks, depending on the amount of water, materials, and airflow. The pros use dehumidifiers and air movers to speed up the process. The area is safe to use only after the electrician verifies the system and moisture levels are low.
Is it safe to turn the power back on after the water recedes?
No, do not turn the power back on until the electrician has inspected everything. Even if the water is gone, moisture may remain in walls and outlets. The electrician will test circuits and replace damaged parts before you restore power.