Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management and automation, announced it has activated its Square D We Care program to support hurricane disaster recovery efforts in Texas, Florida and Georgia. The program is aimed at helping restore power to locations that have been declared Federal Disaster Areas where storms and other catastrophic events have caused damage to electrical systems in homes and businesses.

"While Hurricanes Irma and Harvey are long gone, the after effects of the storms – in particular the vast amount of damage caused by rain and floodwaters – are continuing to pose challenges to recovery efforts," said Ralph Harris, vice president of Channel Development, Schneider Electric. "We are devoted to helping the community rebuild and as part of the We Care program, Schneider Electric is helping the communities hit the hardest ensure electrical equipment and emergency support are readily available for contractors to safely and quickly restore power."

In addition to ensuring local supply of electrical equipment, the We Care program offers extended payment terms, expedited/high priority shipping, an alternate return policy and comprehensive educational materials related to storm recovery and safety for electrical contractors, inspectors, insurance adjusters and consumers.

As recovery efforts continue, Schneider Electric urges home and business owners to exercise caution when assessing electrical equipment that may have incurred water damage during the storm. It is important to check for signs of flooding such as standing water, floor and wall stains, and appliances or electrical equipment that appear to have been exposed to water.

The following precautions are recommended to ensure personal safety, avoid costly damage to physical equipment and minimize financial losses:

• Do not enter a home or building where there is standing water inside until the main power is off.

• If there's evidence of flooding but there is uncertainty if the main power has been turned off, do not attempt to turn it off. Contact an electrician or your electric utility.

• When safe, locate the main panel to see if any circuit breakers or fuses have tripped if there is no electricity upon return.

• If there are any signs of smoke, fire or water damage near electrical outlets, immediately unplug all items in the area and contact an electrician or the electric utility.

If there is any doubt about damage to a structure and its electrical systems by flooding, contact a local, licensed electrical contractor to evaluate its safety and protect life and property.

For additional information on electrical safety for homes and businesses following Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, visit http://www.schneider-electric.us/en/work/services/water_damaged_electrical_equipment/storm-response-faq/

For information for professionals evaluating water-damaged electrical equipment, visit https://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Evaluating-Water-Damaged-Electrical-Equipment.aspx#download