What to do in an electrical emergency

Golden rule: Never use water on an electrical fire

Electrical fires are different from other types of fire. Water conducts electricity, so putting water on an electrical fire can cause serious electric shock or make the fire worse. 

This includes fires involving Aurora Energy electrical assets such as power poles, lines and cables, transformer boxes and pillar boxes. 

What to do if an Aurora Energy electrical asset is on fire

Fires involving our assets are uncommon, but if a fire does occur, take these steps immediately: 

• Call 111 and tell them it is an electrical fire 

• Report it to Aurora Energy on 0800 22 00 05 

• Make sure everyone stays well away from the asset 

• Do not attempt to put out the fire 

Fire and Emergency New Zealand will manage the fire safely following their procedures. 

What to do if you see damaged Aurora Energy assets

Electrical assets outside the home, like power poles, transformer boxes and pillar boxes can be damaged through third party contact with vehicles, or by other objects in stormy weather.  

If you see a damaged asset, even if it is not on fire, keep well away and report it to Aurora Energy on 0800 22 00 05. 

Here's some advice about how to stay safe around electricity at your home or business.

If you hit overhead power lines or underground cables

• If you are in a machine car or other vehicle, stay there because the rubber in the tyres will protect you from an electrical shock
• If you are at serious risk from another hazard, like fire, and must leave the machine, jump well clear. Do not touch the machine and ground at the same time, if possible hop to a safe distance  
• Treat the overhead line or underground cable as live – get back at least 10 metres 
• Evacuate the immediate area 
• Do not cover up a broken cable or try to fix it yourself 
• If someone is injured, phone an ambulance immediately - dial 111 
• Next phone Aurora Energy on 0800 22 00 05 and report the incident 

If you hit a communications cable

• Do not look directly at the cable as laser light may damage eyesight
• Do not attempt to repair the cable. Call us immediately on: 0800 22 00 05

If someone receives an electric shock

• Never touch the injured person if they are still in contact with a live electrical source
• Switch the power off, either at the source or at the main power switch. If you touch the person while they are still in contact with the electrical current you will also get an electric shock or be electrocuted
• Phone for an ambulance immediately - dial 111

For more advice visit Safe living with electricity