Electrical Safety Checklist for Whitsunday Storm Season
Storms and cyclones are part of life in the Whitsundays. This electrical safety checklist covers what to do before, during and after a storm, and when to call a licensed electrician. Most steps take only a few minutes, so now is a good time to get ready for storm season.
Why Storm Prep Matters for Whitsunday Homes
Cyclone season in North Queensland runs from November to April. Strong winds, heavy rain and flooding can damage powerlines, switchboards, wiring and solar systems. Power outages are also common, so a prepared home faces fewer risks.
Before the Storm: Your Electrical Safety Checklist
Test your safety switches
A safety switch (RCD) cuts the power quickly if it detects a fault. Press the “Test” button on each one. It should trip straight away. If it doesn’t, or your home has no safety switches, you may need a switchboard upgrade.
Know how to turn off your power
Find the main switch in your switchboard before a storm arrives. Make sure every adult in your home knows where it is, along with the gas and water shut-offs.
Learn your solar shutdown procedure
Solar systems have a safe isolation procedure, often printed on a label near the inverter. Use it to shut the system down when a severe storm is forecast. Our solar energy team can talk you through the steps.
Secure outdoor equipment and test smoke alarms
- Unplug outdoor TVs and non-fixed aerials and store them somewhere dry
- Pack away electrical equipment that is not in use
- Test your smoke alarms and replace any flat batteries
Queensland homes must also meet updated smoke alarm requirements by 1 January 2027.
Plan for power outages
Charge phones, power banks and torches. If you plan to use a generator, have a change-over switch installed. Some solar battery systems can also provide backup power.
Book a pre-season electrical inspection
A licensed electrician can find hidden problems such as worn wiring, loose connections and faulty safety switches. Our electrical maintenance inspections cover wiring, switchboards, safety devices and lighting. Book before November so there is time for any repairs.
During the Storm: Electrical Safety Tips
- Listen to your local radio station for weather updates
- Avoid fixed (landline) phones during a thunderstorm, as you can get an electric shock
- If you lose power, turn off power points and unplug appliances
- Move electrical equipment higher if flooding is expected
- Stay away from powerlines, trees and watercourses
After the Storm: Staying Safe During Clean-Up
Stay clear of fallen powerlines
Always treat fallen powerlines as live. Report them to Ergon Energy on 13 16 70, or call 000. Also keep away from fallen cables, street lights and foil insulation.
Don’t touch wet or damaged switchboards
Stay away from a switchboard damaged by water or fire, or if lightning is close by.
Treat solar panels and batteries as live
Solar panels produce electricity while the sun is out, even when the grid is off. Batteries may also hold a charge. If your system is damaged, don’t try to turn it off. Stay clear and have a licensed electrician inspect it.
Why you may need an electrician before reconnection
If a storm damages your property or its power connection, our licensed electricians may need to test your switchboard, wiring and appliances. They then issue a certificate of test so your supply can be reconnected.
Water-damaged hard-wired appliances, such as air conditioners and stoves, also need checking before use. Our emergency electricians can help.
How To Use A Generator Safely
- Only connect to your home’s wiring through a generator change-over switch installed by a licensed electrician
- Never connect through a power point, as this causes dangerous back-feeding
- Run the generator outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
- Use leads in good condition and power boards with an overload cut-out switch
- Don’t exceed the generator’s load rating
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- DIY electrical work. It is illegal in Queensland and dangerous. Always use a licensed electrician.
- Switching off a damaged solar system. Leave it alone and contact our team.
- Using water-affected appliances. They can cause electric shocks and fires.
Your Storm Season Preparation Checklist
FAQs
Get Your Home Storm Ready
Working through this electrical safety checklist now means fewer risks when the next storm arrives. We are based in Cannonvale and we service Airlie Beach, Proserpine, Bowen and surrounding areas.
Book a pre-season check through our electrical maintenance service. For storm damage, contact our emergency electricians for 24-hour help.