HEAVY RAIN WARNING FROM KTEMB: “PRIORITIZE YOUR SAFETY WITH ELECTRICITY AFTER FLOODS!”
09.12.2025
HEAVY RAIN WARNING FROM KTEMB: “PRIORITIZE YOUR SAFETY WITH ELECTRICITY AFTER FLOODS!”
With heavy rainfall affecting the entire country, the Cyprus Turkish Electrical Contractors Union (KTEMB) has informed the public about potential electrical hazards that may occur after floods and water intrusion. The Union emphasized the need for extreme caution due to invisible risks that may arise in electrical installations during flooding or leakage.
“Ensure Safety Before Entering Your Home”
KTEMB recommends considering the following important warnings when entering homes and workplaces affected by flooding:
• Make sure the surroundings are safe before entering the property.
• Avoid direct contact with accumulated water inside.
• Use a flashlight when entering the property instead of relying on indoor lighting.
• If it is safe, turn off the electricity from the fuse box. If there is standing water, overheating, or signs of arcing, seek professional help immediately.
• Unplug damaged electrical appliances and remove portable ones from the flooded area.
“Electrical Hazards May Be More Serious Than They Appear”
The Union also listed things that citizens should absolutely avoid after a flood:
• Do not use candles as a light source when entering the house due to the risk of gas leaks.
• Do not operate electrical devices in flood-affected areas until an authorized electrician confirms that it is safe.
• Stay away from exposed electrical cables.
• Do not begin cleaning or repair work until the area is completely safe.
“Seek Professional Support for Repairs and Cleaning”
KTEMB summarized the recommended steps following a flood as follows:
• Obtain expert technical advice to restore the property to its previous condition.
• Consult registered Union members to assess the flood-affected electrical installation.
• Periodic inspection and testing of the electrical installation are strongly advised.
• All portable appliances and fixed equipment should be tested. A Portable Appliance Test (PAT) alone does not guarantee that flood-affected devices are safe; the manufacturer should be consulted.
“If the Damage Is Minor, Drying May Be Enough; If Major, Rewiring May Be Required”
KTEMB noted that damage may be less severe when the water is clean and shared the following information:
• In minor damage cases caused by clean water sources such as rainwater leakage, drying the cables and replacing accessories such as sockets and switches may be sufficient.
• However, in areas exposed to dirty or heavy flooding, parts of the installation may need to be completely rewired.
• If rewiring is required, it is recommended to move electrical equipment above the potential future flood level.
KTEMB President Sılalı: “If You Are Unsure, Seek Help Without Hesitation”
Union President Türkay Uzun Sılalı conveyed his well-wishes to citizens affected by the heavy rains and emphasized that the danger after flooding may be greater than it appears, stating: “Electricity is one of the most invisible and dangerous risks after leakage or flooding. We kindly ask our citizens to seek expert assistance without putting their own safety at risk.”
