Essential Energy warns of flood-related electrical hazards

Essential Energy warns of flood-related electrical hazards, reminding residents, volunteers and emergency workers to prioritise electrical safety when working in floodwaters.

Quick summary: Rising floodwaters bring people closer to powerlines and increase electrical safety risks around the home. Essential Energy advises residents to stay clear of floodwaters where possible, keep away from solar installations and switchboards after flooding, and never re-enter a flood-affected property until power has been disconnected.

Why Flooding Increases Electrical Safety Risks

Operations Manager Ranges, Paul McWilliam, said people should follow basic safety tips to prevent electrical hazards during flood events.

"With this unprecedented flooding and heavy rain across the entire North Coast, we want to remind people to be aware of possible electrical dangers during flooding situations," Paul said.

Stay Clear of Powerlines on Boats, SUPs and Kayaks

"We need people to be aware that as rivers are so much higher, anyone on a boat or SUP or in a kayak is a lot closer to powerlines, so please stay out of floodwaters unless there's a critical need," he said.

• Stay away from floodwaters near powerlines wherever possible
• Keep clear of submerged solar panels, solar inverters and rooftop solar equipment
• Avoid touching switchboards, meter boxes or solar battery systems that have been flooded

Re-entering a Flood-Affected Property

As floodwaters recede, no one should enter a property affected by flooding without first ensuring energised electrical wiring has been shut off or disconnected, Paul said.

Flood waters can damage electrical installations throughout a home, including wiring, appliances and solar systems, even after water levels drop. A licensed electrician should inspect any home solar setup and wiring before power gets restored.

Key Safety Checklist Before Re-Entry

• Confirm electrical wiring has been disconnected by a qualified electrician
• Do not touch solar panels, inverters or associated cabling until cleared by a professional
• Check for damaged powerlines near the property before approaching
• Arrange an inspection of solar equipment for corrosion or water ingress before switching systems back on

Flood waters can damage electrical installations and corrode power points, so residents should treat any wet electrical fittings as hazardous until a qualified tradesperson confirms otherwise.

Supporting Community Safety During Emergencies

Essential Energy's advice reinforces broader efforts to protect emergency workers, volunteers and residents across flood-affected regions. Businesses managing electrical risk on a larger scale may benefit from a documented Electrical Safety Policy and an up-to-date Electrical Equipment Register to track installations and equipment condition following extreme weather events.

Tradespeople responding to flood damage should also carry appropriate first aid provisions, such as an Electrical Tradies First Aid Kit, given the elevated risk profile of flood recovery work.

Read the full story on the Essential Energy website.