Stay safe if you're using generators

People in the impact zone should prepare to be without power for an extended period.

Energex and Ergon Energy Network will restore power as quickly as it is able to. Once the cyclone has passed and it is safe for  crews to begin patrolling, they will assess the damage and prioritise repairs.

The time duration will be variable depending upon the cyclone’s intensity, impact location, damage sustained to the network and access for teams to respond.

General Manager Field Delivery South East Queensland Kev Lavender said the incorrect use of generators can create potentially life-threatening situations, for customers and for our crews working on the network.

“While I understand customers can become frustrated during extended power outages following floods, 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 Energex’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,” Kev 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.”

Kev 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,” he said

“Be aware that petrol and diesel-powered generators produce dangerous, 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.”

Read more on electrical generator safety on our website.