Post-flood warnings for N Qld - danger not over, MEA warns

Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has warned North Queensland residents that despite most floodwaters having receded from tropical cyclone Ita, the danger has not passed.

MEA Queensland State Manager Stephen King urged home owners not to add further tragedy to the damage caused by flooding by taking extra precautions around electrical appliances and fittings.

King also urged flood-affected residents to have their switchboards or any internal electrical fittings tested by an expert before turning them back on. “Given the trauma and cost many victims of Tropical Cyclone Ita are now struggling with, it’s understandable that people might be tempted to avoid calling an electrician to check on appliances, but it’s a risk not worth taking.

“Although it’s a stressful and costly time for those involved, taking short cuts with electrical safety is not the answer. It’s not worth putting your own life and those of your loved ones at risk by simply hoping your electrics and appliances are okay.”

King said if a home had lost power due to flooding, the electricity distributor would likely require a safety check by a licensed electrical contractor before they would reconnect the supply - Energex or Ergon in Queensland.

“Home owners will need an electrical contractor to repair the fittings at the home before wires that have been brought down by winds or falling trees can be reconnected,” King said.

“In order to help home owners find a contractor as quickly as possible, we have opened an emergency hotline. The hotline staff can allocate work to the nearest available contractor to ensure homes are reconnected as quickly as possible.

“The service fee will be negotiated between the home owner and the contractor, but in most cases it should be able to be included in any insurance claim.”