LIVES could be put at risk for people reliant on advanced medical equipment who do not have a plan to counter unexpected power outages this storm season.
Energex manager for customer operation Cloe Kernick said sudden power outages were an inevitable consequence of storm season in Queensland.
“Queensland’s warmer months are havens for severe weather and while we have a very robust power network in this state, lightning, high winds and flooding can always interrupt electricity supply,” Ms Kernick said.
“On the more severe spectrum of Queensland weather we have cyclones that have the potential to take out community infrastructure for many days.
“That’s why it is ideal for anyone in need of powered health equipment to have a comprehensive plan in place to enable them to get through the period without electricity or to have enough time to seek medical assistance.”
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Ms Kernick said it was vital for customers to register their life support needs to their retailer to ensure there is an urgent point of contact prior to planned power outages.
Ahead of a storm, people are encouraged to unplug electric devices to avoid power surge damage, avoid using a fixed telephone and stay indoors away from trees and poles which are susceptible to lightning strikes.
Over the past two years there have been 830,000 ground lightning strikes recorded in south-east Queensland, according to Energex.
Storm season has already devastated the Scenic Rim region after severe hail tore destroyed an estimated $10 million worth of crops in the Kalbar and Fassifern areas.
