The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

OTTUMWA, IOWA -- As the Des Moines River continues to drop, some evacuated residents are being allowed to return home.

Our Fact Finder team looked into what flood victims need to know about their electricity in order to keep your family safe once you’re back in your house.

One electrician told Fact Finder the electrical code requires any submerged electrical outlet, or electrical panel to be replaced.

Once power has been restored, if outlets have not been cleaned they may create a short that could result in a fire.

Flood waters often carry debris and materials that corrode electrical systems.

Our Fact Finder team discovered there are a few important things you should do if your home was flooded.

The experts recommend that you have a licensed electrician inspect all outlets and electrical wiring in your house.

Never plug or unplug appliances that are in water.

Any electrical appliance affected by floodwater should be inspected by a professional.

And remember Water and electricity don’t mix. Treat all water as if it is electrically charged.

For additional information from the Iowa Department of Public Safety, click here.