A power outage can be really unsettling, especially when it strikes unexpectedly. Whether it happens on a quiet Sunday afternoon or during a busy evening at home, losing electricity disrupts everything, from appliances and lighting to your general sense of comfort and security.
For residents in Benalla, understanding what to do during a blackout is essential for staying safe and minimising inconvenience. Our team of Benalla electricians give advice.
A Common Scenario in Benalla
Imagine it’s early evening in Benalla. The skies have darkened, the wind is picking up, and you’re halfway through cooking dinner when,
without warning, the power cuts out. The lights go off, the oven stops, and the fridge falls silent. You check outside and notice the streetlights are out, too. In that moment, it’s more than just inconvenient; it’s stressful and potentially dangerous, particularly if you have young children, elderly family members, or rely on medical equipment.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help, and may even lead to risky decisions, especially if you start fiddling with your electrical system without understanding the issue. Instead, take a moment to assess your surroundings.
Is the power out in just one room or throughout the entire house? Check whether your neighbours still have power. If the whole street is dark, it’s likely a wider issue affecting the neighbourhood. If it’s just your home, you might be dealing with a localised fault.
Investigate Safely (But Don’t Take Risks)
If your property is the only one affected, it could be a tripped circuit breaker or a problem with your switchboard. You might be tempted to take a look, but always prioritise safety. If your switchboard is located in a damp area, like a garage, or if you hear buzzing or smell burning, do not touch anything.
These are signs of a serious fault. It’s safer to call an emergency electrician. Currie Electrical has qualified professionals on call 24/7 throughout Benalla, ready to respond to emergency callouts quickly and safely.
Protect Your Appliances
When the power goes out, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics and major appliances. Sudden power restoration can cause surges that damage your equipment. Disconnect items like TVs, computers, and microwaves, but leave one light on so you’ll know when the power returns.
Be Cautious With Lighting
Avoid using candles if possible. While they may seem like an easy solution, they pose a serious fire risk, especially in homes with pets or children. Instead, use battery-powered torches or lanterns. Keep a few in easily accessible places like kitchen drawers or hallway cupboards.
Keep Fridge and Freezer Doors Closed
To preserve your food, don’t open the fridge or freezer unless absolutely necessary. A closed fridge can keep food cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can stay cold for up to 48 hours. Limiting how often you open the doors will keep temperatures safe for longer.
Check for Power Company Updates
If it’s a large-scale outage, power companies like AusNet Services usually provide updates online or via social media. Use your phone or a battery-powered radio to check for information. It’s a good idea to have a backup power bank charged and ready, just in case your phone battery runs low during an extended outage.
Know the Warning Signs of a Serious Electrical Fault
If you notice flickering lights, burning smells from outlets, buzzing sounds from switches, or sparking appliances, you could be dealing with a serious internal electrical fault. These problems can lead to fires or permanent damage and should be addressed by a licensed electrician immediately.
Currie Electrical has over 50 years of experience handling these types of emergencies. We’re based right here in Benalla and ready to assist when you need help the most.
Call Currie Electrical – Your Local 24/7 Emergency Experts
From homes near Lake Benalla to businesses along Bridge Street, our team is committed to keeping the community safe and connected. Electrical issues can strike at any time, which is why our emergency electricians are available around the clock.
Whether it’s storm-related damage, a sudden power outage, or a serious fault in your home’s wiring, you can trust Currie Electrical to respond quickly, diagnose the issue, and get your power back on safely.
Need help right now?
Remember, You’re Not Alone: call Currie Electrical on 0408 572 766 we’re available 24/7 for all electrical emergencies in Benalla.
