Essential Energy Flood Safety Tips

Essential Energy would like to advise customers of some basic flood safety tips to help you stay safe around electricity during the expected severe flooding in your area.

It is important to remember that flood waters can damage electrical installations. Any deposited mud and debris are able to conduct electricity, making the installation unsafe during and after the flood. The waters can also lead to corrosion of electrical connections and significantly increase the risk of the connection failing or causing a fire.

An installation that has been inundated with flood water requires careful inspection and possible repair before supply can be restored.

How should I prepare for a flood?

Where possible raise all electrical appliances before the flood

If you have some warning that you will be flooded contact Essential Energy on 13 20 80 to see if it is possible to have your supply disconnected before the flood waters reach your property

If your supply has not been disconnected, turn off all switches and main switches before the flood. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not use any part of your body to hold the meter box lid open – use the prop or an object that is non conductive.

What should I do during a flood?

Do not stay inside a flooded building if the power is still connected

Do not use any electrical appliances that have been wet or damaged

When operating a domestic portable generator refer to the manufacturer’s operating instructions and the Essential Energy “Domestic Portable Generator” fact sheet. Visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call 13 23 91 for a copy of the fact sheet

If you are in a boat, be aware that rising flood waters reduce the clearance of overhead powerlines

Be aware that floodwaters can damage the electricity network

Always stay at least eight metres away from the electricity network, including poles and substations

Always stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines and any objects in contact with them.

Always assume powerlines are live and dangerous

If you receive a shock or tingling sensation from any electrical appliances, plumbing, metal, sink or bath:

Avoid all contact with the appliance or objects in question

Call our 24 hour supply interruptions line on 13 20 80 and report the problem as soon as you can.

After the flood

Have electrical equipment inspected by a qualified electrician and repairs carried out before contacting Essential Energy to have power restored

Do not plug in or use any appliances that have been in flood water until they have been checked by a qualified electrician

Call Essential Energy on 13 20 80 before turning the power on if the building has been inundated by flood waters.

For more information

Essential Energy’s Public Safety team is available to facilitate Electrical Awareness sessions and discuss any questions relating to electrical safety

For more information on electrical safety please call Essential Energy:

General enquiries 13 23 91

Supply interruptions 13 20 80

or visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety