Emergencies

Safety equipments

There are a number of emergency situations that can arise as a result of using gas and electricity in our everyday lives.

Remember to call 000 in an emergency situation.

It is important that we all know what to do in the event of an emergency situation such as a power failure, electric shock or a fire. Our tips may be a helpful start.


Power failures

Power failures can occur due to a number of reasons. In the event of a power failure;
  • Switch off your heating and cooling appliances and electrical equipment
  • Store torches in easy to access places
  • Do not use candles

The Essential Services Commission in your state sets standards and monitors the duration and frequency of power interruptions to consumers and can provide more information:-


Electric shocks

Electric shocks are not always fatal. They may stop the heart, cause burns, force muscles to contract and paralyse breathing. Often shock victims cannot let go of the appliance that is passing the current to the body.

If you witness an electric shock:
  • Switch off the power and pull out the plug, so long as there is no danger of you also being electrocuted
  • If you cannot turn the appliance off, use heavy duty insulating gloves or something made of rubber, dry cloth or cured dry wood to free the shock victim (do not use wet or recently sawn wood as this can contain sap that will conduct electricity). It may be safe to use their clothing but only if it is dry
  • Protect yourself and any bystanders from the possibility of further shocks
  • Don’t touch the shock victim’s skin until they are free of the current
  • Seek immediate medical assistance for the victim
  • If you are trained in resuscitation techniques, you should attempt to resuscitate the victim as soon as they are no longer in contact with the electrical current
  • Never attempt to rescue a person where a high voltage electrical current is involved.


Fire safety

Fire blankets and extinguishers can be used to put out small fires, but you should always call 000 in the case of an emergency.

  • If the fire is small, use a fire blanket or extinguish er to smother it
  • If cooking oil catches fire, put the lid on the pan or use a fire blanket to smother the fire, then turn off the burner. Do not attempt to carry the pan outside
  • Never throw water on burning oil as it will spread the fire and can splash back causing burns
  • Never throw water on an electrical fire as you could be electrocuted
  • Turn off or unplug electrical appliances if they catch on fire - as soon as it is safe to do so
  • In house fires remember to crawl low to the floor and toward the nearest exit. If you need to smash a window to get out, protect your hand with a doona or blanket
  • If your clothing catches on fire "Stop, Drop and Roll". Keep rolling until all flames are extinguished
  • Ensure that your garden hoses reach all areas of your home and yard in the event of a fire
  • Plan and practice a home escape plan to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire