Published 2026-10-22 by 247 Rapid Electrician
Summer storms hit the Shire hard, especially in the bushland suburbs around Heathcote, Engadine, Loftus and Bundeena, where trees grow close to homes and powerlines. A little preparation goes a long way, and knowing what to do afterwards keeps you and your family safe.
Before the storm
- Check that outdoor light and power point covers are intact
- Ask an arborist about branches over your service line
- Make sure you know where your switchboard is, and keep a torch nearby
- Consider surge protection for sensitive electronics
- Charge phones and power banks when a storm warning is issued
- Keep a battery radio for updates if the power goes out
Surge protection
Lightning and network faults can send a surge through the wiring that damages TVs, computers, modems and appliances with electronic controls. Plug-in surge protectors help for individual items. A surge protection device fitted at the switchboard protects the whole installation. If you are having your switchboard upgraded, it is worth adding one at the same time. See switchboard upgrades.
During the storm
- Stay inside and away from windows
- Unplug sensitive electronics if it is safe to do so
- Avoid using corded phones and appliances connected to the mains during lightning
- Don't go into the yard to check on lines or trees until the storm has passed
During and after
If a powerline is down, stay at least 8 metres away and call Ausgrid on 13 13 88 or 000. Never touch anything in contact with a fallen line. That includes fences, cars, trees and puddles. Treat every fallen line as live, even if it is not sparking.
Water in the house
If water is coming through light fittings or the ceiling, turn the power off at the switchboard if it's safe to reach, and call us. Do not turn the power off if you have to stand in water to reach the switchboard. Once the leak has been fixed and things have dried out, have the affected circuits tested before you use them again. Water in a ceiling can damage fittings and connections even after it has dried.
If the power goes out
Look outside. If the street is dark, it is likely a network outage and Ausgrid will be working on it. Check Ausgrid's outage information. If it is just your home, check the switchboard for a tripped safety switch. If it will not reset, leave it off and call us. Our emergency repairs page explains what we can help with.
Generators
Never connect a generator to your house wiring by plugging it into a power point. It can send power back into the network and endanger the people working on the lines. A generator can only be connected to house wiring through a proper changeover switch installed by a licensed electrician. Otherwise, plug appliances directly into the generator with suitable leads, and run it outdoors.
Damaged service lines
Repairs to the line between the connection point and your home are Level 2 work. They must be done by an accredited Level 2 electrician. We're not Level 2 accredited, but we can make the wiring inside your home safe.
After the storm
- Check outdoor lights, power points, pool equipment and air conditioner units for damage
- Look for scorch marks or a burning smell at the switchboard
- Have anything that got wet tested before using it
- Photograph damage for your insurer before repairs, if it is safe
Storm damage to your electrics? Call 0421 772 661, day or night.
Solar and batteries
If you have solar panels or a home battery, follow the shutdown steps in the manufacturer's manual if the system is damaged or water has got into it, and do not touch damaged panels or cables. Have the system checked by a qualified installer before it is switched back on.