Keep people away from wet electrical equipment, damaged service lines and flooded sockets. Switch off at a safe dry isolator only when you can do so without entering water or approaching exposed conductors.
Rain increases the consequences of damaged insulation, poor outdoor connections, leaking roofs and unsafe generator changeovers. Prevention should happen before the storm, not while equipment is wet.
The essentials
- Roof leaks above sockets, meters or distribution boards.
- Outdoor extensions, exposed joints and low-hanging service cables.
- Working protective devices and a clearly accessible main isolator.
- A safe generator or inverter changeover installed by a qualified person.
What to check first
Start with the evidence already in front of you. A precise account, meter, product or safety detail is more useful than guessing from the outcome alone.
- Roof leaks above sockets, meters or distribution boards.
- Outdoor extensions, exposed joints and low-hanging service cables.
- Working protective devices and a clearly accessible main isolator.
- A safe generator or inverter changeover installed by a qualified person.
Step by step
Work through the existing transaction, account or installation in order. Keep the reference and result from each step before moving to the next.
- Move people away and keep the area dry.
- Disconnect supply only from a safe, dry position if possible.
- Report fallen lines or damaged utility equipment to the DisCo.
- Have wet or damaged installations inspected before re-energising.
Mistakes to avoid
These shortcuts often turn a traceable problem into a second payment, a lost evidence trail or a safety risk.
- Walking through water to reach a switch or victim.
- Touching a fallen wire, metal fence or vehicle in contact with a line.
- Using indoor extension leads outdoors or in wet areas.
When to escalate
Treat sparking, smoke, fallen conductors and electricity in floodwater as emergencies. Keep everyone clear and call the serving DisCo and emergency services.
Frequently asked
Can I switch off electricity during flooding?
Only if the isolator is reachable from a dry, safe position and you understand it. Do not enter water or touch wet equipment to reach it.
Can wet appliances be used after they dry?
Not automatically. Internal damage and contamination can remain. Have affected equipment checked before reconnecting it.
Research sources
Official guidance, product information and public sources were reviewed on 27 July 2026.