Victoria’s energy safety regulator, Energy Safe Victoria, provides the following advice for households who are without power as a severe weather event continues across Victoria.
Using a generator
- If you are using a generator, do not attempt to connect it to the wiring of your home. This is dangerous and illegal. Electrical work can only be carried out by licensed electricians.
- A generator should only be used outside, with an extension cord to supply power direct to appliances such as the fridge or freezer. Using a generator indoors creates a number of safety risks including the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.
Supply has been restored but I still have no power
- Households still without power after electricity supply has been restored should seek the help of their electricity distributor. Check the ESV if you are unsure of your distributor.
- The problem could be a fault in the supply line to the property, or a fault within the property’s electrical installation.
- If there are continuing power supply problems, contact a registered electrical contractor. Only electricians licensed by Energy Safe Victoria can perform electrical work.
Appliances
- When there is a power cut, make sure heating and cooking appliances are turned off (there is a risk of fire if they come back on and there is no one at the property).
Fallen Powerlines
- Stay more than eight-to-10 metres away from fallen powerlines. Standing near fallen powerlines can be fatal.
- Always treat fallen powerlines as live even when they are broken.
Outdoor Gas Appliances
- Using outdoor gas appliances, such as portable camping and patio heaters, inside is unsafe and can significantly increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and other health hazards.
- All gas appliances require fresh air to operate and ventilation to allow the products of combustion to escape.
Reviewed 14 December 2022