1. Safety & Reliability - PSEG Long Island
  2. Storm Safety

Flood Safety

Electric Wires and Water Don't Mix

Government Assistance

You may qualify for financial assistance to replace flood-damaged heating and cooling equipment. After consulting with your insurance company, contact a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) near you.

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Respect Electricity

Nothing's more important than your safety. When severe weather brings flooding, it's important to take extra precautions.

  • When possible, unplug and move small appliances, electronics, and lights out of the water's reach.
  • Don't step into a flooded basement or room if water has reached electrical outlets, appliances, or cords. Energized water can shock or electrocute you.
  • Don't turn off power at the breaker box if you can't stay dry to reach it safely. Call us at 1-800-490-0075 to shut off power at the meter.
  • Avoid contact with your building's electrical system, water heater, heating system, air conditioning, or other equipment that's been damaged by flooding. In many cases, this equipment will need to be replaced.
  • Electrical wiring that's come in contact with salt water creates the risk of electrical faults or fires. A licensed electrician can find and replace damaged wiring and possibly isolate it from unaffected areas.
  • Once your power's back, reconnect your appliances gradually to avoid overloading the circuits.

How PSEG Long Island Restores Electric Service After Flooding

We may not be able to reconnect your power right away when there is severe flooding from a storm. Flood waters can affect your electric meter, electrical panel, wiring, and other equipment. Our first concern is the health and safety of our customers and employees. PSEG Long Island follows a series of steps before we can turn the power back on.

  • Make sure you've cleared the water from flooded areas surrounding your home or building.
  • After the water recedes, you must contact a licensed electrical contractor to inspect and repair your meter box and electrical system. All costs are the property owner's responsibility.
  • After the contractor completes all repairs, you must complete and submit the PSEG Long Island Licensed Electrician Inspection form. You can:
     
  • Once we receive a completed inspection form, we'll reconnect your electric service as soon as we can.