Storm Safety

Storm Safety

Storms can have a significant impact on the electricity network, damage poles and powerlines, interrupt your power supply and cause considerable damage to property – both public and private. During storm season, stay aware and stay safe. Download our Storm Safety Checklist to plan ahead.

Know what to do if your power is lost
Report branches over powerlines to Essential Energy on 132080
Stay 8 metres away from fallen powerlines

Be prepared

It’s important to be prepared in the event of storms or other adverse weather events.

Keep an eye on StormTracker so you can prepare for storms
Before a storm arrives, recharge your phones and laptops to help you stay connected with radio alerts, family and friends
Back-up computers and phones to keep data safe
Consider your back up plan in case your power is lost. Put in place alternative power sources for operating water pumps, electronic garage doors, and cooking
Make sure you know how to open your garage doors and gates manually
Remove loose items and debris around your property, which could become airborne in strong winds
Trim trees around the house to minimise the risks of flying debris. Do not attempt to prune trees in or near any powerlines. Call us on 132391 or Report vegetation near powerlines by completing our online form
Unplug your television, computer, modem and other sensitive electrical equipment during a storm and minimise the use of telephones and electrical appliances
Keep a torch and battery powered radio in an easily accessible place in the event of a power outage
Prepare an emergency plan and an emergency kit. Visit the SES website for more information and tools for creating your emergency plan

During a storm and after a storm

Damaged or fallen powerlines can be hard to spot. Indicators of potential damage may include:

flickering or no power supply
burnt areas in paddocks or roadsides
injured or downed stock
smoke or fallen trees.

Keep yourself and bystanders safe. Always stay at least 8 metres from fallen or damaged powerlines and anything in contact with them like tree branches or fences, and report the issue immediately to us on 132080.

Emergency escape procedure

If you are in a vehicle or machinery which comes into contact with the overhead powerlines or the underground electricity network, always assume the electricity is ‘live’ and STAY. CALL. WAIT.

STAY in your vehicle
CALL 000 immediately
WAIT for emergency services to arrive and you’re given the all-clear by Essential Energy.

Evacuating a vehicle in an emergency

If escape is absolutely necessary (due to fire) jump well clear to avoid contact with the vehicle and the ground at the same time
When you jump, land with your feet together then shuffle or jump until you are at least 8 metres clear of the vehicle, powerlines or anything else they may be touching
Do not touch the vehicle, fall or allow your feet to step apart
Do not return to the vehicle for any reason
Call us immediately on 132080

Remember to never approach a vehicle to assist in an evacuation and always treat powerlines as if they are ‘live’.