Wake Electric encourages members to practice caution and safety during summer storms, which at times can be severe. Beware of flooded areas caused by heavy rains — water and electricity do not mix! Below is safety advice to use following a summer storm:

Flooded areas: Be careful when attempting to walk in flooded areas and remember that submerged outlets or electrical cords could energize the water.

Wet electrical equipment: Do not use electrical appliances that have been wet. Water can damage the motors in electrical appliances, such as furnaces, freezers, refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers. Electrical parts can pose a shock hazard or overheat and cause a fire.

Portable generators: Take special care with portable electric generators, which can provide a good source of power, but if improperly installed or operated, can become deadly. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring. Power from generators can back-feed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line workers making repairs. A qualified, licensed electrician should install your generator to ensure that it meets local electrical codes. For more information, visit wemc.com/storm-preparation-outages.

More tips:

• Make sure your generator is properly grounded.

• Keep the generator dry.

• Make sure extension cords used with generators are rated for the load, free of cuts and worn insulation, and have three-pronged plugs.

• Do not overload the generator.

• Do not operate the generator in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very quickly, which can be deadly.

• Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. Portable GFCIs require no tools to install and are available at prices ranging from $12 to $30.

Source: ESFI and NRECA