What to do in case of Water damage or flooding
Heavy rain, melting snow or plumbing problems can cause flooding or water damage in your home. When water comes into contact with electricity, it can pose a safety hazard.
In case of flooding
Follow the instructions issued by your municipality and the local authorities responsible for your area.
Flooding is imminent
If flooding is imminent, but water has not yet entered the building:
- Turn off the power by switching off the main circuit breaker for your home or business.
- Follow the instructions issued by your municipality and the local authorities.
There is water inside the building
If all of the following conditions are met, turn off the power to the entire house by switching off the main circuit breaker with your left hand while standing beside the distribution board (electrical panel) rather than directly in front of it:
- The floor is completely dry around the distribution board (electrical panel).
- Your feet, hands and shoes are completely dry.
- You do not touch a metal object and the distribution board (electrical panel) at the same time.
If these conditions are not met, do not touch anything and go outside without touching the water.
Remote power shutdown
If you are unable to safely turn off the power, call us. We will shut off the power remotely.
Dial 911 immediately you cannot leave the area without coming into contact with water or energized electrical equipment.
When the situation is under control
Do not restore power yourself and avoid touching any damaged equipment.
- If water has seeped into the building, contact a master electrician to have your electrical installation inspected and the necessary repairs made to restore it to good working condition.
- If power has been shut off remotely by Hydro‑Québec, only a master electrician can ask us to restore it.
Consult a healthcare professional if you have been injured or have received an electric shock.
More information on flooding
To stay informed about flooding, official advisories and the latest instructions in Québec, visit the Government of Québec website.
See the official guidelinesSupport and guidance
Experiencing or witnessing such an incident can cause stress, anxiety or emotional distress. Don’t hesitate to ask for support.
Government of Québec
Financial support and programs for people affected by flooding.
Info‑Social 811
To speak with a psychosocial worker, available 24/7.
Personal network
Talking to a loved one, a coworker or someone you trust can help in the days that follow the incident.
FAQ
Our answers to the most common questions.
Dial 911 immediately if you are in danger or unable to leave the area safely, especially if you need to cross water that is in contact with energized electrical equipment. Also contact emergency services in the event of a rapid rise in water, risk of electrocution or urgent evacuation, or if someone is injured or trapped. When in doubt, it is best to call.
Yes. Water can become electrified if it comes into contact with electrical equipment. Avoid contact.
Yes, but with great caution. Turning off the power in the presence of water is recommended to reduce the risk of electrocution and fire. However, this should only be done if the following conditions are met:
- The floor is completely dry around the distribution board (electrical panel).
- Your feet, hands and shoes are completely dry.
- You do not touch a metal object and the distribution board (electrical panel) at the same time.
If these conditions are not met, do not touch anything and go outside without touching the water.
Do not approach it! When water comes into contact with electrical equipment, there is a high risk of electrocution. Contact Hydro‑Québec immediately at 1 800 790‑2424; the power can be shut off remotely to ensure safety.
Don’t touch anything and move away from the hazardous area immediately. If you cannot safely shut off the power, leave the area and call Hydro‑Québec promptly at 1 800 790‑2424; the power can be shut off remotely to ensure safety. Your safety should always come first.
No. After water damage, it is strongly advised NOT to restore power yourself. The electrical installations must first be inspected by a master electrician, who will confirm that they are safe. If service has been shut off remotely by Hydro‑Québec, only a master electrician can ask us to restore it.
A master electrician must inspect the electrical installations and confirm that they are safe before power is restored.
Power can be restored only after a master electrician has verified that the electrical installations are safe and compliant. If service has been shut off remotely by Hydro‑Québec, only a master electrician can ask us to restore it.
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