05 April 2023
With plenty of handy people donning the tool belt and getting stuck into jobs around the house this Easter, Ergon and Energex are urging people to be electrically safe to avoid turning DIY into DIE.
Last year across Queensland more than 500 serious electric shocks were reported to Queensland Ambulance. Of these 293 occurred last year, figures Energex Area Manager Chris Pell said are extremely concerning.
Mr Pell urged handy homebodies to be conscious of electrical dangers when working around the house these holidays.
“School holidays and extra-long weekends like Easter always see a spike in the number of people tackling DIY jobs around the home,” Mr Pell said.
“People will be cutting, drilling and digging around their properties and we’re highlighting the need to be aware that live electrical cables can be hidden behind every wall, floor and ceiling.
“So before working on an area of your home, ensure there are no wires behind the surface by using a quality stud finder that has an electricity sensing capability or avoid drilling or cutting in the surface near power points or other electrical fittings.
“If you’re still unsure, you’re better off taking the safest route by getting a licensed electrical contractor in to check all the areas you’ll be working on. It’s a cheap way of ensuring you don’t injure yourself with an electric shock or worse still, electrocution.
“If you have to enter your roof space for any reason, remember there are electrical wires running up there so ensure all of your power is turned off at the meter box before entering the area.”
Mr Pell also reminded Queenslanders that attempting to do your own electrical work is not only extremely dangerous, it’s illegal, and electrical work must only ever be carried out by a qualified electrician.
“Too many unqualified people who’ve attempted electrical work have either severely injured or killed themselves or a loved one,” he said.
“DIY electrical is so life-threatening in fact, it’s illegal in Queensland and it voids your home insurance.
“Just as concerning, dodgy electrical work can also lead to house fires down the track.
“Ultimately, engaging the services of an experienced and licensed electrician can help you avoid a multitude of dangers and ensures you and your family have a productive and safe DIY Easter.