Make Sure Your Electrical Appliances Don’t Pose a Hazard in Bad Weather

If there’s one thing that every Brisbane resident has learnt, it’s that you have to be prepared for floods and storms. But even the most well prepared person can feel overwhelmed and frightened in the event of a major storm. Electrical devices can be among the most hazardous devices during a storm or flood, so here are a few tips on staying safe.

During the Storm

If you’re at home when a storm hits, it’s important to try to keep away from electrical devices that have been affected by water. Rooms where electrical devices, cords or power points are submerged can be very dangerous. If your fuse box or circuit breaker box is covered in water, you should contact your residential electrician in Brisbane as soon as it is safe to do so. On that note, make sure you know exactly where your fuse box is located. It’s surprising how many people don’t know where it is, so if you’re one of those people, find out now!

If the power has gone out in your home, switch off and unplug your electrical devices. This can reduce the risk of those appliances being damaged, and it can also limit the risk of electrocution or sparks flying during a storm. It’s important to use portable devices rather than those connected to a power point.

For example, you should use your mobile phone rather than a landline if you need to contact loved ones, emergency services or your residential or commercial electrician. Brisbane residents, and indeed all Queenslanders, should listen for updates on a battery-powered radio during an emergency, or check websites such as the Bureau of Meteorology or Queensland Disaster Management Services on a charged up portable computer.

After the Storm

When returning to your home after a flood or storm, be wary that there could be a number of electrical hazards in and around your house. If there are fallen power lines, contact your local electricity supplier. You should also check if the power has been shut off. If unsure, contact your Brisbane electrician, Matt Devitt Electrical. You should also get a licensed electrician to check the wiring and inspect all electrical components of the home, including switchboards and electrical appliances. Keep clear of switchboards and appliances that may have sustained water damage.

When you do enter your home, you should wear protective gear such as rubber boots, gloves and a hard hat to protect yourself from electrocution and debris. You will also probably need a flashlight to see where you’re going, and you should always have a first aid kit handy. When the floodwater has abated, and it is safe to enter the house, make sure the power is off when you start the clean up, as you are likely to be using water and detergents.

If you have any doubts or questions about electrical safety during floods or storms, call us on 0437 670 317.