6 Essential Electrical Safety Tips for Storm Protection: Follow Our Guide

Storms can bring more than just heavy rain and strong winds − they can also create serious electrical hazards.

Power surges, outages and downed power lines can put your home and safety at risk. That’s why it’s essential to take precautions before, during, and after a storm to prevent electrical accidents.

By following a few simple steps, you can protect your appliances, avoid power surges, and reduce the risk of electrical shocks or fires. Whether it’s unplugging electronics, using surge protectors or staying away from downed power lines, these small actions can make a big difference.

In this guide, we’ll share six essential electrical safety tips to help you stay prepared when storms hit. A little preparation now can help keep your home and family safe when bad weather strikes.

1. Unplug Electronics and Appliances

During a storm, power surges caused by lightning strikes or grid disruptions can send a massive voltage spike through your home’s wiring.

This can damage or completely destroy expensive electronics and appliances. The safest way to protect your devices is by unplugging them before the storm hits.

Here’s why and how you should do it:

• Prevent power surge damage – Unplugging appliances like TVs, computers and kitchen gadgets ensures they won’t be fried by sudden voltage spikes.
• Protect your home from electrical fires – Surges can overload wiring and outlets, increasing the risk of electrical fires. Unplugging reduces this danger.
• Prioritise high-value and essential items – If unplugging everything isn’t practical, start with the most sensitive electronics like gaming consoles, smart TVs and office equipment.
• Don’t forget smaller devices – Phone chargers, Wi-Fi routers, and lamps can also be affected. If they’re not in use, unplug them as well.
• Use a central power strip for convenience – Plugging multiple devices into a surge-protected power strip makes it easier to disconnect everything quickly before a storm.

Taking a few moments to unplug your devices can save you from expensive repairs and replacements later.

2. Install Surge Protectors

A lightning strike or sudden power surge during a storm can fry your electronics in an instant. That’s why installing surge protectors is one of the smartest ways to safeguard your home’s electrical devices.

Surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from your appliances, preventing damage caused by power spikes.

Not all surge protectors are created equal. Basic power strips may provide extra outlets, but they don’t always offer true surge protection.

Look for surge protectors with a high joule rating − the higher the number, the better the protection. For maximum safety, consider a whole-home surge protector, which is installed at your electrical panel and protects your entire house.

It’s also important to replace surge protectors every few years since they wear out over time. A good rule of thumb is to check the indicator light − if it’s off, the protector may no longer be effective.

By installing quality surge protectors throughout your home, you can help prevent costly damage to computers, TVs and other sensitive electronics when a storm hits.

3. Avoid Using Electrical Devices During Storms

When a storm is raging outside, using electrical devices can put you at risk of shock or even electrocution. Lightning strikes can send powerful surges through power lines and home wiring, making it unsafe to use plugged-in electronics.

To stay safe, follow these precautions:

• Avoid using plugged-in devices – Lightning can travel through your home’s wiring and damage or short-circuit devices like TVs, computers, and gaming consoles. Stick to battery-powered options instead.
• Stay off corded phones – Landline phones with cords can conduct electricity if lightning strikes nearby. Use a mobile phone or a cordless phone instead.
• Don’t use electrical appliances – Avoid using microwaves, washing machines and other large appliances during a storm. Power surges can damage internal components and even cause fires.
• Unplug unused devices– Even if you’re not using them, plugged-in electronics can still be affected by surges. If possible, unplug items before the storm hits.
• Stick to battery-powered or wireless alternatives – If you need light, use battery-operated flashlights or lanterns instead of electrical lamps.

Taking these precautions ensures you and your electronics stay safe until the storm passes.

4. Stay Away from Electrical Hazards After the Storm

Once a storm has passed, it’s tempting to step outside and assess any damage. However, electrical hazards can linger long after the rain stops. Downed power lines, water-damaged outlets and exposed electrical wiring all pose serious risks.

If you see a fallen power line, stay at least 10 metres (m) away − even if it looks inactive. Electricity can still be flowing, and touching or stepping too close could result in severe injury or death. Call emergency services or your power company immediately to report the hazard.

Flooded areas are another danger. Water conducts electricity, so never step into standing water near electrical outlets, appliances, or circuit breakers. If your home has been flooded, avoid turning on the power until a licensed electrician has inspected your wiring.

Also, be cautious when cleaning up debris − damaged electrical equipment may still hold a charge. If you suspect any electrical damage, don’t attempt DIY repairs.

Always call a professional to assess and fix the problem safely. Staying alert and following these precautions can prevent serious accidents after a storm.

5. Use a Backup Power Source Safely

Power outages during storms can leave you without lights, heating, or even essential appliances. A backup power source, like a portable generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), can keep things running – but only if used safely.

Follow these tips to prevent electrical hazards:

• Never run a generator indoors – Generators produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly in enclosed spaces. Always place them outside, at least 6m away from doors and windows.
• Use a transfer switch – Plugging a generator directly into your home’s power system without a transfer switch can cause backfeeding, which risks electrocution for utility workers and damage to your home.
• Keep generators dry – Using a generator in wet conditions can cause electrical shocks. Keep it on a dry, elevated surface and use a generator tent if necessary.
• Don’t overload the generator – Check the wattage limits and only plug in essential appliances to avoid overheating and failure.
• Use a UPS for small electronics – A UPS can provide short-term backup power for computers and modems, preventing data loss during sudden outages.

By using backup power safely, you can stay prepared without putting yourself or others at risk.

6. Schedule an Electrical Inspection Before Winter

Winter storms bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even lightning − all of which can put your home’s electrical system at risk. Scheduling an electrical inspection before winter is a smart way to catch potential hazards early and ensure your home is storm-ready.

A licensed electrician will check for faulty wiring, outdated circuit breakers and poor grounding, which can all increase the risk of power surges or electrical fires during a storm. They’ll also inspect your switchboard, powerpoints, and outdoor wiring to make sure everything is in top shape.

If your home has older electrical components, it may not be equipped to handle sudden voltage spikes caused by storms. Upgrading your system with whole-home surge protection and modern circuit breakers can help prevent damage to your appliances and keep your home safe.

By getting an electrical inspection before winter hits, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is protected from unexpected electrical issues. It’s a simple step that can save you from costly repairs and keep your family safe during stormy weather.

Take a Few Simple Steps

Storms can be unpredictable, but your electrical safety doesn’t have to be. Taking simple precautions – like unplugging devices, using surge protectors and avoiding electrical hazards – can help protect your home and loved ones when bad weather strikes.

A little preparation goes a long way in preventing costly damage, fires, or even serious injuries.

Don’t wait until the next storm to think about electrical safety. Schedule an electrical inspection before storm season, invest in backup power solutions, and always follow best practices when dealing with electricity during and after a storm.

By following these six essential tips, you’ll be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Stay safe, stay informed, and make storm protection a priority.

A few simple steps today can keep you and your home secure when the skies turn dark.

Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.