Flooding dangers

With some areas of the province facing the impact of severe flooding, SaskPower is warning customers of the dangers associated with operating electrical and gas appliances and equipment that have been exposed to flood waters.

In areas where safety concerns were an issue, the electrical service to residences has been disconnected. To reconnect service, customers require a permit from a licensed Saskatchewan electrical contractor and a SaskPower electrical inspector must check the property to ensure it is safe.

Similarly, furnaces, water heaters and other gas appliances exposed to flood water must be checked by a licensed gas contractor before use. If gas appliances need to be replaced or serviced, a permit must be issued and the work must be done by a licensed contractor.

While customers can obtain their own electrical permits if they are qualified to do the work themselves, only licensed gas contractors can request a permit for new gas installations and changes.
For electrical emergencies, including electrical disconnects, call SaskPower at 310-2220. For information on service reconnections, contact the SaskPower Flood Information Line at 1-877-585-3395. More information about restoring service after a flood is available on the SaskPower website at www.saskpower.com/safety.

Another hazard customers need to be aware of is fallen power lines and high flood waters near overhead lines. Customers are urged to stay well away from fallen power lines or any electrical equipment that is within reach because of rising flood waters.