Electrical safety outdoors

The cooler winter months are a great time to get outside your home and complete those jobs which are too unbearable to do in the summer heat. Trim the shrubs, clean the gutters, touch up the painting, fix loose decking, just generally have a good tidy up. In your rush to beat the heat, don't forget to consider a few simple outdoor electrical safety precautions.

Electrical safety outdoors

South-east Queensland has been lucky enough to get a reasonable rain in the last few weeks, well above the average for this time of year. Working with power tools in wet conditions can be potentially deadly, even if you've sensibly waited until the rain has stopped. Water is just one unique aspect to keep in mind when working safely outdoors.

• Before doing any electrical work outside ensure you can work in a totally dry space. If not, postpone to a dry day.
• Test the safety switch to ensure it's working correctly and will trigger if needed. Call a licenced electrician to repair before starting any work it if fails to trigger.
• Don't run extension cords from inside the house through windows creating a dangerous obstacle or trip hazard.
• Check power cords for damage each time you use them. Even a small crack can cause an electric shock.
• Use extreme caution when working around water such as the swimming pool, spa, pond or stormwater drain. If in doubt call in a professional for the job.
• Keep well clear of electrical wires running to your house or shed.
• If using a metal ladder make sure it has rubber feet to minimise the risk of shock.
• Dial before you dig, hitting an underground cable with a shovel could be deadly - Call 1100 or visit dialbeforeyoudig.com.au.
• Check tools for damage to housing, exposed wires and excessive heat.
• When using an electric lawn mower, line trimmer, hedge trimmer or chainsaw be constantly aware of the cord to avoid accidentally severing it.
• Use the right tool for the job. Emergency rooms are busy each weekend patching up keen DIYers who used incorrect tools. Only use appliances designed to be used outdoors.
• Unplug and put away appliances and cords when you're finished to avoid getting them wet.
• Wear the correct safety gear such as covered shoes, safety glasses and gloves where needed.
• Never cut drill or nail into walls, flooring or ceilings without knowing where the electrical wiring runs through your home. Use a licenced electrician to locate wiring.

Electrical safety around your home needs to be the first priority when doing home maintenance. Always use a licenced electrical specialist for all tool repairs, do not attempt to repair yourself.

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