South-east Queenslanders affected by yesterday’s floods are being urged to have their electrical appliances and connections checked by a qualified tradesperson before powering them up again.

Master Electricians Australia CEO Malcolm Richards said water-damaged buildings and electrical appliances posed a major safety threat to affected residents and business owners.

“Electricity and water do not mix,” Mr Richards said.

“Any electrical appliances or power points which have been submerged in water are prone to causing electrical shocks and pose a tremendous danger to people and properties.

“A leaking roof dripping through to the ceiling lights is all it takes to spark a devastating house fire,” he said.

Mr Richards urged all affected residents to proactively protect themselves and their houses by having a qualified Master Electrician assess their home’s electrical risks.

“There is no room for complacency after such an emergency as this.

“Affected residents should have all of their appliances and their home’s electrical power points and wiring inspected by a qualified tradesperson to ensure it’s 100 per cent safe to turn on again,” Mr Richards said.

“Our emergency service workers are already stretched to capacity.

“There’s no reason anyone should suffer from electrical shocks when there are Master Electricians on the ground in south-east Queensland who can help repair your electrical appliances and wiring and protect your family,” he said.

To ensure your future electrical safety in an emergency, Mr Richards recommends you have your safety switch tested regularly by a Master Electrician to ensure it’s functioning effectively.

Master Electricians are all experienced electrical contractors who complete a stringent, annual safety and quality audit, adhere to a code of practice, and offer customers a 12-month guarantee on their work.

21 May 2009