14 December 2023
Generator safety urged during TC Jasper outages
Ergon Energy is urging customers in cyclone-affected areas in Far North Queensland to follow strict safety guidelines if they are using generators at home, while power restoration work continues in impacted communities.
Tropical Cyclone Jasper cut power to 40,000 customers at the peak of the event, and has caused widespread damage to the electricity network.
Ergon Chief Operating Officer, Paul Jordon said the incorrect use of generators can create potentially life-threatening situations, both for customers and our employees.
“While I understand customers can become frustrated during extended power outages following cyclones, you simply can’t allow that frustration to spill over into dangerous activity.
“If generators are plugged directly into fixed home wiring or parts of Ergon Energy’s network, it can kill.
“Portable generators set up incorrectly in this way can send electricity back down our network along powerlines that our crews are working on,” Mr Jordon said.
“Energy travelling back along damaged sections of our network could re-energise powerlines down on roads, in flooded areas or even back into other properties with exposed wiring or where repairs are in progress. The results are potentially lethal not only for our crews but also for other members of the community.”
Mr Jordon added that customers could safely plug appliances or stand-alone lighting directly into their own generators, subject to the manufacturer’s instructions.
“Use a heavy-duty extension cord rated for outdoor use to keep the generator safely outdoors.
“Be aware that petrol and diesel-powered generators produce deadly, but invisible and odourless, fumes, so always run a portable generator outdoors – never inside, or in a garage or closed space.
“And remember to be a good neighbour by ensuring the noise from your generator causes the least possible disturbance.
“Generators can be a valuable tool for providing an interim power supply after disasters such as a cyclone.
“But the improper use of portable generators can be dangerous, and it is important to observe the manufacturer’s instructions for their correct use,” Mr Jordon said.
MEDIA CONTACT: Senior Corporate Communications Advisor Emma Oliveri at 0457 566 079