After a hurricane, electrical hazards become one of the most serious and life-threatening issues for homes, businesses, and first responders. Flooding, roof damage, fallen poles, and exposed wiring can create dangerous situations that require immediate and professional attention.
Below are important Do’s and Don’ts to follow after a hurricane to keep your property and loved ones safe.
Do’s After a Hurricane
✔ Have a Licensed Electrical Inspector Check Your Property
If your home or business was flooded or the roof was blown off, always hire a registered/licensed electrical inspector to perform a thorough inspection of all wiring, fixtures, and the electrical infrastructure.
- Properties with roof damage will often require rewiring.
- A new breaker panel and breakers may need to be installed if the existing panel was damaged or flooded.
✔ Treat All Electrical Wires as Live
Never touch or attempt to move downed wires. Consider every conductor or cable to be energized.
Report downed or exposed wires to:
- JPS
- Fire Brigade
- Licensed/Registered Electricians
✔ Remove or Stabilize Broken Poles
If poles on your property are broken, leaning, or unstable:
- Have them removed, replanted, or reinforced
- Call a licensed lineman or electrical contractor to complete the work safely
✔ Use Generators Safely
Improper generator use causes fires, electrocution, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Always follow these guidelines:
- Never connect a generator to your electrical panel unless done by a licensed electrician.
- Never operate a generator indoors.
- Do not refuel a generator while it is running or still hot.
- Diesel generators are preferred for residential use.
- A key start, push-button, or automatic-start system is recommended for convenience and safety.
✔ Use Extension Cords Properly
Extension cords are for temporary use only.
- Use cords that are properly rated for the equipment you are powering.
- Avoid long-term dependence on extension cables.
✔ Keep Overhead Equipment Clear
Ensure your pothead (service connection point) is free from:
- Tree limbs
- Branches
- Any obstruction
✔ Properly Secure Your Electrical Stanchion
Your stanchion must be:
- Firmly anchored to concrete or walls
- Secured using rawl bolts — never with blue screws
✔ Have Solar/Renewable Systems Inspected
Solar and renewable energy systems must be checked by:
- Licensed electricians or
- Registered engineers
They must inspect for:
- Damage
- Proper grounding
- Safe operation
✔ Get Electrical Recertification When Needed
If you require new power, temporary power, or reconnection, you must obtain:
- A new electrical inspection
- Certification from a licensed electrical inspector or registered electrician
Temporary installations are valid for three months only.
✔ Use Only Approved Electrical Materials
Always use materials certified by:
- Bureau of Standards (BSJ)
- UL Listed products
Purchase electrical supplies only from reputable outlets and never use old, damaged, or substandard materials.
✔ Protect Children and Vulnerable Persons
Keep children and others who may be at risk away from:
- Outlets
- Cords
- Charging devices
- Exposed wiring
✔ Follow Official Safety Guidance
Always stay updated with electrical safety guidelines from:
- JPS
- Fire Brigade
- ODPEM
- Other government safety agencies
Don’ts After a Hurricane
✘ Do Not Attempt Illegal Connections
Illegal electrical connections:
- Put your family, neighbors, firefighters, and first responders at risk
- Can cause fires, shocks, and fatalities
Stop illegal connections immediately.
✘ Never Pay Anyone to Reconnect Power Illegally
Only the electric utility and licensed professionals can legally restore power.
Do not pay unlicensed individuals claiming they can reconnect service.
Licensed inspectors and registered electricians will always have official identification from the government electrical regulator.
✘ Do Not Rebuild Without Electrical Consultation
Before rebuilding or repairing any structure:
- Consult a licensed electrical inspector or registered electrician
- Get proper design, advice, and consultation
Final Advice
Electricity is dangerous and heavily regulated to protect lives and property.
After a hurricane, always prioritize safety, hire licensed professionals, and follow official guidelines.
Stay safe — and let’s rebuild stronger and better together.
