ESFI Issues Electrical Guidance for Hurricane and Flood Preparedness

ESFI published guidance covering electrical hazards associated with hurricanes, flooding, portable generators and lightning. The material highlights GFCIs where water and electricity may meet and advises professional inspection before restoring power after a flood.

Water can conceal energized hazards

ESFI warns that submerged outlets or cords can energize standing water. It advises keeping power off after flooding until the electrical system and wet appliances have been inspected for safety.

Generator connections require control

The guidance says portable generators should operate outdoors at least 20 feet from the home and should never be plugged directly into house wiring. ESFI identifies a transfer switch as the safe route for supplying a home system and preventing backfeeding.

Why the update matters

The guidance directly connects wet-location protection with GFCI use and safe electrical restoration. It is public-safety information, not an installation design or a substitute for local codes and qualified electricians.

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