Before or during a flood, most people may not think their home is at risk of a fire. But, firefighters say that’s one of the greatest risks and there are simple steps you can take to prevent a fire tragedy in the middle of a flooding ordeal.
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City of Fort Lauderdale Fire Chief Stephen Gollan said most people forget to do one minor thing that becomes a major problem later.
“Often what we see is individuals will have the power shut off. They leave their home, and inevitably, they’ll leave something out on the countertop or worst case, on top of the stovetop,” explained Chief Gollan. “Then the power comes back when they’re not home, activating whatever that device or the stove may be. That then ignites and creates a house fire for us.”
Gollan said during the historic floods in April 2023, the fire department saw firsthand how floods could bring fire.
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“After that time, we saw multiple fires, pop up, four that, I can remember directly and all of those were caused by utilities coming back online and, the, the electric or services to that home not properly being, shut off prior to them leaving,” recalled Chief Gollan.
And he added that house fires ignite most commonly after flooding and not during the flooding.
What can you do to prevent a fire during flooding?
- Step one: Unplug everything, from laptops to TV’s, to coffee makers and fans
- Step two: Try and raise anything that is low to the ground, extension cords, chargers, even stereo systems
- Step three: Make sure you have nothing near items that emit heat like a stovetop
- Step four: Shut the power off before leaving
Another thing to not forget about is electric vehicles and golf carts. Make sure to unplug these vehicles and if after a storm or flooding they are making weird noises, call the manufacturer or fire department.
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Read more ways to flood proof your home.