How do I create a back-up plan?

We are committed to providing you a safe and reliable electricity supply. However, occasionally we may have to interrupt your power to undertake upgrades or planned maintenance.

Storms, bushfires and other unexpected problems can also disrupt your power. For these reasons we are unable to guarantee continuous 24-hour power supply to your home.

We urge all life support customers to be prepared. This could be as simple as having important information on hand including names, addresses and telephone numbers of your doctor, the nearest hospital, a neighbour or someone nearby who is willing to assist you.

If we plan any work that affects you, we will notify you in writing at least four business days in advance, giving you details of the date, time and duration of the scheduled interruption.

A checklist to help plan for power interruptions

Your answers to these questions will help you develop an action plan that could save your life in an emergency.

  • Can you get out of your home if there is no electricity?
  • Does your landline telephone need an electricity supply?
  • Do you have an alternative phone service such as a mobile phone?
  • Do you have a neighbour who can help you if the power goes out?
  • If you have reserve oxygen cylinders, are they filled and working?
  • Are your medical supplies fully stocked and secure in case of an emergency?
  • Do you have important contact details handy e.g. doctor, hospital, local taxi service?
  • Do you have general items handy e.g. torch and battery operated radio?
  • Do you have Endeavour Energy’s emergency phone number (131 003) handy to call if the power goes out?
  • Do you have emergency arrangements for extended outages?
  • What back-up is built into the life support equipment you have?
  • Do you have uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for temporary back-up power?
  • If you have a back-up battery, how often do you check to make sure it is fully charged?
  • Does your hospital supply power via back-up generators for your life support equipment if the power is out?
  • Is your life support equipment plugged into a surge protector?

To assist your planning, we have prepared a useful fact sheet which can be downloaded here: Important information for life support customers.

And please remember, always dial triple zero (000) in a medical emergency and ask for an ambulance.