Ameren urges customers to prepare for flooding, offers safety tips

ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI) — With forecasted rainfall and flood warnings issued, Ameren is encouraging customers to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines to avoid electrical and natural gas hazards.

Ameren officials warned that flooding can cause safety issues, particularly when electricity and water are present.

“Electricity and water can be a dangerous combination,” said Landy Wince, senior director of regional divisions at Ameren Missouri. “We want to remind customers to prioritize their safety.”

Ameren offered seven electrical flood safety tips:

Avoid stepping into flooded areas with electrical outlets or appliances.
Refrain from turning off power at the breaker box while standing in water.
Keep electric tools at least 10 feet away from wet surfaces.
Avoid using electric yard tools in rain or wet conditions.
Have a professional inspect electrical appliances that have been in contact with water.
Consider installing ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on outdoor and wet-area outlets.
Never drive through flooded areas.

Additionally, Ameren advised natural gas customers to call the company to temporarily interrupt service if flooding occurs in their area.