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CURRENT NEWS
MidAmerican Energy Offers Flooding Safety Tips
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For more information, contact:
Ann Thelen, Director, Communications & Media Relations, at 515-281-2785
Mark Reinders, Communications Manager, at 712-277-7866
DES MOINES, Iowa – (March 10, 2010) – MidAmerican Energy Company reminds customers that flooding can create electric and natural gas hazards. Customers should take steps to ensure their safety.
Customers should call to have services temporarily disconnected if their electric or gas meter is threatened by flooding. During flooding, MidAmerican will temporarily disconnect services if:
- A customer requests to have service disconnected.
- MidAmerican determines a situation is hazardous if service is not disconnected.
- Local disaster or city officials request disconnection of services in an impacted area.
Customers with questions should call MidAmerican toll free at 888-427-5632.
As part of its ongoing safety program, MidAmerican offers the following guidelines:
Before the flood
- If there is no water in your basement and you have time, unplug as many appliances as you can. If possible, move them to a higher level.
- Do not touch or attempt to unplug or disconnect an electrical appliance if the floor is damp or if you are standing in water.
- If you think the water might rise high enough to cover electrical outlets, switch off the circuit breakers at the main electrical box. Be sure water is not covering outlets before entering the basement.
- If it appears the water level may reach the main electrical box or your electric or gas meters, call MidAmerican immediately so that services can be shut off completely.
After the flood
- If you smell natural gas, do not enter the building. Call MidAmerican immediately at 888-427-5632.
- Once floodwaters recede, call MidAmerican to restore your service. There are no charges for turning off and turning on service because of flooding.
- If your electricity or natural gas was temporarily disconnected because of flooding, do not attempt to restore these services yourself.
- City, county or state inspections may be required before gas and electric service can be restored in homes or businesses affected by flooding. Inspectors will notify MidAmerican when it is safe to restore service to a home or business.
- Building codes or manufacturers’ requirements may require natural gas appliance controls and valves to be replaced if they were flooded. Customers should ask inspectors or appliance dealers to determine if their appliances can be placed back into service. After the inspection is complete, call MidAmerican.
- If your home was flooded, call a professional electrician to examine your electrical wiring and appliances. Do not turn on any lights, appliances or other electrical equipment until an electrician has checked your home for short circuits.
- Thoroughly clean and dry all electrical cords and appliances before using them.
- There may be scams associated with flood relief efforts. If you are suspicious of any activity, call local law enforcement authorities.
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