In this article, we’ll outline how to prepare your home for storms with practical electrical safety tips. By following this storm readiness guide, you can minimise power outage risks and protect your appliances and loved ones. Stay ahead of the storm with these essential tips –
Brisbane’s storm season has officially arrived — and with heatwaves, sudden thunderstorms, and damaging hail already hitting suburbs across the city, electrical safety has never been more important. Queensland is no stranger to destructive summer weather, and in recent years storms have grown more unpredictable and more intense.
That’s why preparing your home’s electrical system before the next storm hits is essential. While no amount of planning can stop weather-related power outages, taking the right precautions can reduce electrical risks, protect your appliances, and help keep your family safe during severe weather.
As a trusted local electrician with decades of hands-on experience, Allyn White Electrical is here to help you storm-proof your home and keep your family safe.
Before the Storm: Essential Preparation for Your Electrical System
Brisbane storms can develop rapidly, so the safest time to act is now. Use this checklist to prepare your home before severe weather arrives:
- Ensure your safety switches are installed and tested regularly.
- Know where your main power, gas, and water shut-off points are, so you can act quickly in an emergency.
- Pack away and protect any unused or outdoor electrical equipment.
- Unplug outdoor TVs, portable aerials, and devices to prevent damage.
- Switch off and unplug electrical appliances when a storm is approaching.
- Safely shut down your solar PV system following the correct isolation steps.
During the Storm: How to Stay Safe
When lightning, high winds, and hail hit, your priority is personal safety. Keep these electrical safety rules in mind:
- Listen to local updates on the radio or emergency channels.
- Turn off power points and unplug devices if the power goes out.
- Avoid using fixed landline phones during lightning strikes.
- Move important electrical equipment to higher ground if flooding is possible.
- Stay well away from trees, power lines, and watercourses.
- Keep your family in the safest area of the home, away from potential electrical hazards.
If you notice sparks, burning smells, arcing, or small fires, call emergency services immediately. Once it’s safe, contact Allyn White Electrical for an urgent inspection before turning anything back on.
After the Storm: What to Check Before Reconnecting Power
Even after the weather clears, electrical dangers may remain. Flooding, wind damage, and water infiltration can compromise your home’s wiring, appliances, and switchboard.
Here’s what to do before reconnecting power:
- Stay updated with official warnings and local alerts.
- Stay well clear of fallen or damaged power lines — report them immediately.
- Avoid touching damaged switchboards, cables, or electrical infrastructure.
- Do not attempt DIY electrical work — it’s unsafe and illegal.
- Do not touch or restart your solar PV system until a professional checks it.
- Never use water-damaged appliances without having them inspected, if in doubt throw it out.
For all post-storm electrical checks, Allyn White Electrical can safely assess, test, and certify your home for reconnection, so you know your home is safe.
Additional Important Checks After Major Weather Events
Property or Connection Line Damage
Floodwater and high winds can affect your home’s main supply or internal circuits. Always have an electrician assess:
- Switchboards
- Sub-mains
- Internal wiring
- Power points and lighting circuits
Only a licensed professional can safely test and reconnect these systems — and Allyn White Electrical can do this for you.
Solar PV Systems (Important Safety Information)
While Allyn White Electrical does not perform solar installation or repair work, it’s still important for Brisbane homeowners to know what to do if their solar system is affected during a storm.
- If your solar panels, isolators, or inverter have been exposed to flooding, hail, or debris:
- Do NOT touch or attempt to turn off the system after a storm if it appears damaged or wet.
- Stay clear of all solar panels, wiring, and isolators — they may still be live.
- If safe to do so before a storm, shut down the system using the correct isolation procedure.
- After the storm, arrange for a licensed solar specialist to inspect and recommission the system.
- Never reconnect solar equipment until a licensed solar technician has confirmed it is safe.
If your home has solar, ensure you contact a licensed solar technician for system testing after storms. For all other electrical safety checks, repairs, or storm damage assessments, Allyn White Electrical is here to help.
Electrical Appliances and Equipment
If an appliance has been wet, flooded, or exposed to moisture:
- Do not plug it in.
- Do not attempt to dry or repair it.
- Either dispose of it or have it checked by a licensed electrician.
If you’re unsure — assume it’s unsafe until we inspect it.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home This Storm Season with Expert Help
Brisbane’s summer storms can be unpredictable, but your home doesn’t have to be unprepared. With the right precautions before, during, and after severe weather, you can significantly reduce electrical hazards and keep your family safe.
And remember electrical safety is never worth guessing.
If something looks wrong, smells wrong, or feels unsafe — stop immediately and call a professional.
As a trusted, family-run business in Bardon, Allyn White Electrical provides personal service from a licensed electrician who does all the work himself — no subcontractors, no surprises.
For expert electrical services or a free quote, call 0416 235 641.
Whether it’s weekdays, weekends, or after hours, Allyn’s rates stay the same — so you never pay extra for urgent help when you need it most.
