Living in the Whitsundays means dealing with cyclone season every year. While most of us know to stock up on water and secure outdoor furniture, your home’s electrical system deserves just as much attention before the storms roll in.
Here’s how to prepare your property and stay safe during and after severe weather.
Before the storm
Check your switchboard is up-to-date. A modern switchboard with safety switches and circuit breakers gives your home the best protection against power surges and electrical faults caused by storm damage. If your switchboard is outdated, getting it upgraded before cyclone season is one of the smartest investments you can make.
Have your smoke alarms tested. Storms can cause electrical fires, so make sure your smoke alarms are working and compliant. Interconnected smoke alarms, which are required under Queensland legislation, ensure that if one alarm triggers, they all sound throughout the home.
Trim trees near power lines. If you have trees growing close to overhead power lines on your property, have them trimmed well before storm season. Falling branches are one of the most common causes of power outages and downed lines during cyclones.
Consider a backup power solution. Extended power outages are common during and after severe storms in the Whitsundays. A generator with a proper changeover switch gives you reliable backup power for essentials like fridges, lighting, and medical equipment. A UPS (uninterrupted power supply) can also protect sensitive electronics from surges.
During the storm
Turn off appliances at the wall. Power surges during storms can damage electronics and appliances. Turning off and unplugging non-essential items reduces the risk. Pay particular attention to computers, TVs, and air conditioning units.
Stay away from fallen power lines. If you see a downed power line, assume it’s live and keep at least 8 metres away. Call Ergon Energy on 13 22 96 to report it immediately. Never attempt to move or touch a fallen line yourself.
Don’t use electrical equipment in standing water. If your property has flooded, do not use any electrical equipment or attempt to access your switchboard while standing in water. Wait for the water to recede and have a licensed electrician inspect your system before turning the power back on.
After the storm
Get your electrical system inspected. Even if everything appears to be working, storm damage can cause hidden issues in your wiring, switchboard, or external connections. A professional inspection can identify problems before they become dangerous.
Check for water damage around electrical points. Look for signs of moisture around power points, light switches, and your switchboard. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and even minor moisture ingress can create a shock or fire hazard.
Don’t rush to restore power yourself. If your power went out during the storm, wait for your electricity provider to confirm the supply is safe before switching everything back on. If you have a generator, make sure it’s connected through a proper changeover switch to avoid backfeeding into the grid, which is extremely dangerous for line workers.
Plan ahead, stay safe
Cyclone season is part of life in the Whitsundays, but a little preparation goes a long way. If you’d like your electrical system assessed before storm season, or you need a generator or backup power solution installed, give us a call on 0410 747 072. We’re available 24/7 for emergencies and happy to help you prepare.