Storm

Storm Season

Summer brings an increased risk of storms and fires. You can help reduce the chance of interruptions to the electricity supply by keeping trees clear of power lines.

Storms can bring down power lines and damage other parts of TPL’s electricity network. Always keep well clear of fallen power lines and anything that is in contact with them and report immediately to our faults numbers:

Faults: 21344/28344

Emergency: 944

Storm season preparations
Before
During
After

Around fallen power lines

High winds and flying debris can bring down overhead power lines. Take care when cleaning up as fallen power lines hidden in branches, debris or water can be extremely dangerous. Don't take chances and if you find something you think might be a power line, always assume it is 'live' and dangerous even if it's not sparking.

Keep well away, warn others and call 21344/28344 or our emergency line on 944.

Warn children not to play or swim in floodwaters as there may be unseen 'live' and dangerous electrical wiring or fallen power lines which may be hidden by debris in the water.

What to do if the power goes out?

Sometimes interruptions are inevitable during storm season. When restoring power supplies, we always make time for safety - both your safety and the safety of our staff. While our crews are mindful of the importance of restoring power as quickly as possible, their first responsibility is to make our network safe.

If your power goes out - from the safety of your own home, look out the window or contact neighbours to check if the interruption is affecting only your property or is more widespread.

If you can see or hear something that could help identify the problem, like a hanging power line, stay well clear and contact us on 21344/28344/944, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Precise details will assist our emergency crews to restore power.

If you're experiencing dull or flickering lights, 'brown out', low voltage or partial supply, turn off and unplug appliances like your refrigerator, television, computer and DVD at the power point. Do not touch your switchboard or anything metal in your home and call 21344/28344/944 immediately

		Tidy up unsecured objects around your home and yard

		Trim loose or dying branches but call a professional tree trimmer
		if they're near power lines

		Check your Emergency Kit and ensure you have water containers
		and gas bottles are refilled for cooking

		Have extra cash on hand - ATMs and banks may not be operating

		Pack spare clothing, shoes, sturdy gloves and hats in waterproof
		containers

		Freeze water for alternative refrigeration should there be a power
		failure

		Stock up on food, water and medicines

		Identify a safe place to evacuate should a storm surge or flood
		threaten

		Install a surge protector in your home to help protect sensitive
		electronic equipment

		Check your storm season preparations

		Ensure mobile phone batteries are fully charged

		Board or tape glass on exposed windows and secure all doors

		Fill containers with water, including bath and sink, in case water
		supplies are cut.

		Stay indoors as the storm approaches and ensure pets in a safe
		shelter

		Turn off and unplug electrical appliances. Unplug TV, DVD, and
		Fridges etc

		Stay inside and away from windows and doors

		Listen to a battery-operated radio for weather updates and don't
		venture outside until you know it's safe to do so

		Use a torch to find your way around

		Don't use a landline phone during a storm. Use a mobile, but only in
		emergencies

		Stay well away from fallen power lines. Always assume they are 'live' and
		dangerous. Report them immediately to 21344/28344/944

		Listen to a battery-operated radio for official advice and power restoration
		information

		If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or water
		taps, call us immediately on 21344/28344/944, 24 hours a day, 7 days a
		week. And call your licensed electrical contractor to check your electrical
		wiring immediately. Contact TPL to obtain a list of the licensed electrical
		contractors with their contact details on 24607

		Take extra care around your switchboard if it's outside and wear synthetic or rubber-soled shoes.
		If you are in any doubt about the switchboard's safety, stay clear and call your licensed electrical
		contractor

		Please unplug your appliances at the power point before power is restored
		to avoid electrical damage or potential fire

		Don't use any electrical appliances that have been wet or damaged. Have them checked by your
		licensed electrical contractor

		Alert neighbours if you think there may be any danger

		Don't go sight-seeing

		If your home or business sustains damage which prevents the reconnection
		of power, have a licensed electrical contractor repair electrical damage.
		Notify us when repairs are complete so power can be restored.