electrical and gas safety

The Department for Energy and Mining continues to promote the safe and responsible use of electrical, gas and plumbing equipment in South Australia.

Being aware of the safety risks in your environment and getting to know your appliances helps you stay safe in your home and the community.

On this page

Gas leaks

Smelling gas inside and outside your home can be a warning sign of something dangerous and deadly. Gas leaks can cause fires and lead to explosions. Stay safe and act immediately with our top tips:

Report a gas leak, 1800 GAS LEAK

  • If gas catches fire, call 000 immediately.
  • If you smell gas outdoors, call 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532) to report the leak.
  • Turn off your gas supply if you smell gas on your property, after the gas meter, and call a licensed gas fitter.
  • If you smell gas inside, evacuate and ventilate the home, turn off your electricity and gas at the meter and call a licensed gas fitter.
  • Gas leaks may not always have a strong smell, look for the warning signs.

Find more information and safety tips on gas leaks on the SA.GOV.AU website

Barbecues

Unsafe barbecue practices can lead to house fires, injuries and damage to your home. Follow our essential tips to stay safe this summer:

  • Ensure your LPG cylinder is in date, certified and you are using the correct connection.
  • Inspect the gas hose for cracks, kinks, crushing or stretching before every use.
  • Test for gas leaks using soapy water every time you connect, change cylinders or use the barbecue.
  • Clean drip trays, grills and burners regularly to prevent grease buildup and blockages.
  • After cooking, always turn off the gas at the cylinder first, then the barbecue.

Find more information and tips on barbecue safety on the SA.GOV.AU website

Outdoor appliances

Using outdoor appliances in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay safe this summer with our top safety tips:

  • Never use outdoor appliances indoors, including in your house, caravans, cars or tents.
  • Regularly service and maintain all gas appliances for safety.
  • Never leave unflued gas appliances unattended or running overnight while sleeping.
  • Get a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm installed for early detection.
  • Familiarise yourself with the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and call triple zero (000) in an emergency.

Find more information and tips for using gas appliances safely on the SA.GOV.AU website

Christmas lights

Damaged, broken or tangled Christmas lights are the main causes of electric shock, fires and injury over the holiday period. Follow these safety tips:

  • Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety warnings.
  • Check your Christmas lights before installation to ensure they work properly.
  • Safely discard any broken lights, power boards or extension leads.
  • Ensure outdoor lights and power boards are suitable for external use; never use indoor equipment outside.
  • Purchase lighting products from trusted sources to ensure safety and quality.

Find more information and tips for using electricity safely on the SA.GOV.AU website

More electricity and gas safety information

Information on buying appliances, safety systems and other advice related to using electricity, gas and hot water safely, is available on the SA.GOV.AU website.

Lithium ion batteries

Lithium ion batteries feature in a number of household devices because of their high power and capacity, and their fast-charging capability.

Information about using lithium ion battery products safely is available from the SA.GOV.AU website.