Living here in Queensland we can experience unpredictable weather such as storms and floods. Be storm-ready with these tips to ensure you and your home stay electrically safe. Here is our storm season electrical safety checklist to keep on hand.
✨ Preparation is Key: Before a storm or wet season hits:
✔️ Install a safety switch and test it regularly.
✔️ Know where to turn off power, gas, and water in emergencies.
✔️ Pack up unused electrical equipment; store it in a safe place.
✔️ Unplug outside TVs and non-fixed aerials; keep them dry.
✔️ Switch off and unplug electrical devices when a storm is imminent.
✔️ Shut down your solar PV system using the safe isolation procedure.
⚠️ During the Storm or Flood: Follow these simple steps to stay safe:
✅ Listen to your local radio for weather updates.
⚡ Turn off power points; unplug electrical devices if power is lost.
☎️ Avoid using fixed telephones during thunderstorms to prevent electric shock.
✨ Move electrical equipment to higher locations if floods are expected.
⚠️ Stay away from powerlines, trees, and watercourses.
✔️ Clean-Up After the Storm: Post-storm cleanup is crucial for safety:
✅ Listen to local radio for warnings and advice.
⚠️ Report damaged power lines; stay away from them.
⚡ Avoid electrical signs, streetlights, cables, or conductive materials.
✋ Don’t touch damaged switchboards; it’s dangerous. Use a licensed electrician.
✋ Don’t attempt DIY electrical work – it’s illegal and unsafe. Hire a licensed electrician.
☀️ If you have a solar PV system, stay clear during cleanup. Call an electrician to check it for safety.
✖️ Property or Connection Damage:
If your property or connection line is damaged by a storm or flood, you may need verification tests on your switchboard, wiring, equipment and appliances prior to reconnection to ensure the electrical circuits are still working and safe.
✅ Hire a licensed electrician for verification tests before reconnection.
✅ Get a certificate of test for reconnection approval.
✅ Check Queensland Disaster Management for comprehensive storm safety info.
Queensland Disaster management has more information about storm safety and actions to take before, during and after a storm.
☀️ Solar PV Systems: For damaged solar PV systems:
⚠️ Do not attempt to turn off the system after a storm/flood/cyclone.
⛔ Stay away from solar panels and wiring.
⚡ Have an electrician inspect, repair, and ensure safety before re-commissioning.
✖️ Electrical Appliances and Equipment: Using water-damaged equipment can be dangerous:
⚡ Dispose of or have a licensed electrician repair water-affected electrical item.
⚡ Have an electrician check water-damaged hard-wired appliances before reconnecting power.
For more information visit the electrical safety office and click on the link below: https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/electrical-safety-home/electrical-safety-during-storms
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