In Brisbane and South East Queensland, severe storms can hit suddenly, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and lightning. During these events, it's important to prioritise electrical safety to protect your home, family, and property. Here are some key tips to stay safe before, during, and after a storm, including when to call in a
licensed Brisbane electrician.
Before the Storm Hits
1.
Unplug Outdoor Electrical Appliances:
Before the storm arrives, unplug any outdoor electrical appliances and store them in a dry, safe place. This helps to prevent damage from water exposure and potential electrical hazards.
2.
Move Appliances to Higher Ground:
If flooding is predicted, move electrical appliances, like microwaves, heaters, or entertainment systems, to higher areas of your home. This minimises the risk of damage in case of water entering your property.
3.
Know How to Turn Off Your Power, Gas, and Water Supply:
Familiarise yourself with how to safely turn off your power supply, gas, and water. Knowing this can be vital in preventing damage if a flood or other emergency situation arises.
During the Storm
1. Avoid Damaged Switchboards:
If your switchboard is damaged by the storm, do not touch it. Instead, call a
licensed electrician to assess and repair any damage once it is safe to do so.
2.
Switch Off and Unplug Appliances:
If the power goes out, switch off and unplug heating and cooking appliances, such as ovens, toasters, and space heaters. This prevents the risk of these devices turning back on when power is restored, which could start a fire.
3.
Safely Shut Down Solar PV Systems:
If you have a solar PV system, shut it down using the safe isolation procedure detailed in the manual or located at the solar inverter. This protects your solar system and helps to prevent electrical issues during the storm.
4. Avoid DIY Electrical Repairs:
Do not attempt to fix major electrical issues during a storm. It’s both unsafe and illegal. Wait for the storm to pass and call a licensed electrician for any necessary repairs. Make sure to obtain a Certificate of Electrical Safety after the work is completed.
Dealing with Flickering Lights and Power Issues
1.
Flickering Lights and Brownouts:
If you notice dull or flickering lights, or experience a 'brown out' or low voltage during a storm, take these steps:
- Do not touch the switchboard or any metal surfaces.
- Turn off any accessible power points and unplug appliances.
- Contact your electricity provider immediately to report the issue.
2.
Electric Shocks and Tingling:
If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or even from water taps, it could indicate a serious electrical problem. Immediately:
- Call your electricity provider to report the issue.
- Have a licensed electrician inspect the wiring throughout your property to identify and address any potential hazards.
Stay Safe Around Powerlines
1.
Beware of Fallen Powerlines:
Storms can bring down powerlines, which may still carry a dangerous current. Stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines—about the length of two cars—and avoid anything they may be touching, such as trees or fences. Remember, even broken powerlines can carry deadly electrical currents.
After the Storm
Once the storm has passed, it’s important to assess the safety of your home before turning on the power.
1.
Inspect for Damage:
Check your property for any damage to electrical cables, wiring, or appliances. If you notice any issues:
- Do not turn on the power.
- Avoid touching damaged equipment or cables.
- Contact a
licensed electrician to make sure the area is safe before proceeding.
2.
Safely Restore Power:
If you need to restore power after an outage:
- Unplug or turn off all electrical appliances and equipment before switching the power back on.
- Turn on the main power switch on your switchboard.
- Gradually turn on each circuit breaker, one at a time.
- If you have an RCD (Residual Current Device or safety switch), press and hold the test button for five seconds to check if it’s functioning correctly. If the RCD fails the test, it’s crucial to have it replaced by a licensed electrician before using any appliances.
Call a Licensed Electrician for Storm Damage
Electrical safety during a storm is a serious concern. If you encounter any electrical issues before, during, or after a storm, it's best to leave it to the professionals.
RLC Electrical provides expert services in Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, and throughout South East Queensland, ensuring that your home is safe and compliant with all regulations. Contact us today at 📞
0413 817 074 for help with inspections, repairs, and electrical safety.

Staying prepared and following these safety tips can make a big difference when facing Queensland's stormy weather. Remember, when in doubt, always call a licensed electrician to keep you and your family safe.
