Everyone
Storm & Power Outage Electrical Safety
Practical safety steps for Kansas City homes and businesses before, during and after storms and power outages.
Downed lines
Always assume a downed line is energized. Stay at least 35 feet away, keep others back, and report it to your utility and 911. Never drive over a downed line.
Generators
- Never run a portable generator indoors, in a garage, or near windows
- Never plug a generator into a wall outlet (backfeeding endangers utility crews)
- Use a properly installed transfer switch for connecting to home circuits
- Install and test carbon monoxide detectors
After flooding
Don't energize equipment, outlets or panels that have been underwater. Water-damaged electrical components generally need evaluation and often replacement by a licensed electrician.
Surge protection
Restoration of power can bring surges. Whole-building surge protection, combined with point-of-use protectors, helps protect electronics and equipment.
General information only — not a substitute for an on-site evaluation by a licensed electrician. Questions? Call (816) 743-0770.