Flood safety

Understand the causes of flooding, its consequences and safety tips in the event of flooding.

Learn how to prevent flooding and waterlogging

Floods are natural phenomena that occur when the volume of water in a place, usually caused by rain, exceeds the absorption capacity of the soil or the runoff capacity of drainage systems. In Brazil, they are very common and can cause major social, economic and environmental damage.

But how do you prevent and stay safe in the event of flooding caused by rain?

Turn off the power

If there is a risk of flooding inside your home, turn off the main switchboard immediately to avoid short circuits and electric shocks. If the water level reaches the switchboard, call the utility company immediately and ask for the service branch to be disconnected.

Avoid contact with accumulated water
Water may be contaminated or in contact with exposed electrical cables. Always find a safe, dry place.

If you have to come into contact with dirty water or mud, wear rubber boots and gloves, or plastic bags tied around your feet and arms.

Elevators
Don't use elevators during floods, as they can get stuck between floors or flood. Ideally, they should have the power switched off and there should be no access to the shaft, as it may contain electrified water.

Unplug electrical appliances
Unplug all electronic and electrical appliances to avoid damage and accidents. It is very important not to touch these devices with wet hands or feet.

If the walls inside the house are damp, don't use the sockets installed there, as they can cause shocks and even damage equipment.

Store important documents and food in a high place
Protect valuable items from possible water damage. In the event of flooding, make sure to thoroughly disinfect objects and food and discard anything that can no longer be used or eaten.

Avoid contact with electricity poles

Even if the power grid is switched off, don't climb poles to protect yourself, as the power could come back on without warning and cause serious accidents.

Take care outside the home
Regardless of whether it's raining or not, always keep your distance from the electricity grid. In the event of rain, avoid being in open areas such as soccer pitches, swimming pools, lakes, ponds and beaches. Do not stand near or under trees, poles, metal structures, masts and high places. The recommendation is to stay indoors, away from objects such as stoves and pipes, or in a sheltered place.

Install antennas in suitable locations
Do not carry out services such as installing or maintaining aerials in places where there is a greater risk of exposure to lightning. In the event of rain, do not install, disconnect or remove the object. If your antenna falls on or near the network, never try to hold or retrieve it.

Don't touch power lines or fallen trees
In the event of a fallen power line or tree over the power line, do not approach it and immediately notify the power utility.

If you notice any irregularities in the electricity network, in the event of rain, flooding or waterlogging, Neoenergia recommends that you do not tamper with electrical/electronic appliances and call your energy distributor immediately.