Summer in Australia means one thing: BBQs, backyard parties, cold drinks, and long nights under the stars. But with more people outside, more appliances plugged in, and more lighting turned on, your outdoor electrical setup is pushed to its limits.

And here’s the truth-
Most electrical accidents in summer happen outdoors.
Loose cables, dodgy power boards, non-weatherproof outlets, and overloaded circuits are the biggest culprits.

To help you host safely, here is the ultimate outdoor lighting & power safety guide for the BBQ season.

1. Use Weatherproof Outdoor Power Outlets (IP-Rated)

Regular indoor outlets are NOT safe outdoors, even in sheltered areas.

Look for IP44 or higher outdoor outlets, which protect against:

• Water splashes

• Rain

• Dirt & dust

• Insects

• Moisture buildup

If your outdoor area still uses old indoor outlets, it’s a major hazard in summer.

2. Never Use Indoor Extension Cords Outside

Indoor cords can:
1.  Overheat
2. Absorb moisture
3. Crack in the sun
4. Cause electrocution

Outdoor-rated leads are thicker, durable, and weather-safe.

Pro tip:
Avoid joining multiple extension cords; it's one of the biggest BBQ hazards.

3. Check Your Outdoor Lights Before Turning Them On

Garden lights, fairy lights, festoon lights, they all add vibes.
But they also add risk if not maintained.

Inspect for:

• Frayed or cracked cables

• Loose fittings

• Corroded metal parts

• Missing insulation

• DIY repairs (never safe)

If they’re old, damaged, or cheap, replace them; especially before hosting guests.

4. Keep All Power Connectors Off the Ground

Rain, dew, and wet grass = electrical danger.

Make sure:

• Connectors aren’t touching the soil

• Cords aren’t lying in puddles

• Power points are elevated and protected

• Lights near pathways are secured

Use outdoor cable clips or stakes to elevate your cords safely.

5. Extra Safety Around Pools & Wet Areas

Water + electricity = disaster.

If you have guests gathering near a pool, spa, or water feature:

• Keep all electrical items 2 metres away

• Use only 12V low-voltage lighting near water

• Never leave extension leads where people walk

• Avoid using portable speakers while charging

If you want poolside lighting, always use professional installation.

6. Protect Outdoor Power Boards From the Heat

Most people leave power boards in:

• Direct sunlight

• Wet grass

• Under BBQs

• Near high-traffic areas

This causes overheating or melting.

Always use:
1. Outdoor-rated power boards
2. Covered & ventilated units
3. Boards placed off the ground

Avoid cheap power boards. They fail fast in Aussie summers.

7. Avoid Overloading Your Outdoor Circuits

Summer gatherings =
music + lights + BBQ + outdoor fridge + fans + speakers.

A standard outlet can only handle so much.

If you experience:

• Warm outlets

• Tripping circuits

• Flickering outdoor lights

-Your outdoor circuit is overloaded.

You may need a dedicated outdoor circuit installed by a licensed electrician.

8. Christmas Lighting Safety (If Hosting in December)

Fairy lights look stunning, but they pose risks when misused.

Remember:

• Only use lights labelled “Suitable for Outdoor Use”

• Avoid running them through doorways or sharp edges

• Don’t piggy-back multiple power boards

• Turn them off when you go to sleep

Old Christmas lights are a fire risk, upgrading is smart and safer.

9. Install Outdoor Safety Switches (RCDs)

An outdoor RCD will instantly cut the power if there’s:

• Water exposure

• A short circuit

• Cable damage

• A shock risk

This is one of the most effective outdoor electrical safety upgrades.

If you’re unsure whether your outdoor circuit is RCD-protected, we can check for you.

A summer BBQ should be fun, relaxing, and safe — not ruined by an electrical accident. By following these outdoor lighting and power safety tips, you’ll protect your guests, your home, and your summer vibes.

Hosting a BBQ soon? Call us now for an Outdoor Electrical Safety Check and make your backyard safe for the season.