Energex and the Volunteer Marine Rescue urge boaties to be aware of overhead powerlines and submarine power cables after a yachtie hooked an 11,000 volt cable at Bribie Island.
Bribie Island VMR crews rescued a yachtie who came close to damaging the high-voltage cable and, if was not for the quick thinking of the VMR crew who cut the anchor chain loose, the situation could have turned deadly.
Southern Moreton Bay has a series of submarine and overhead cables - some disused - at places like Victoria Point, just north of Toondah Harbour, Rocky Point and Lytton.
Energex safety advisor Kevin Hore said overhead powerlines and submarine cables could carry enough electricity to run entire suburbs.
"Some of these cables and powerlines can transmit up to 132,000 volts and, if hit, can cause very serious damage to boats or even kill someone onboard instantly," he said.
"If the worse does occur and a boatie does become hooked up on overhead powerlines or underwater cables they should keep as far away as possible from the section of boat touching the powerline or cable and call triple zero or radio the VMR or Coast Guard immediately."
Bribie Island VMR commodore Liz Radajewski said boaties should always remain aware of what was above and under their craft.
"Those with yachts should always keep a visual for any overhead wires while sailing on rivers to ensure their masts don't come in contact with them," she said.
"Similarly, masts on trailer sailors should be lowered when pulling the boat up the ramp to prevent them contacting powerlines.
"Also when dropping anchor, boat owners should always look for signs on the banks that mark the location of underwater services to ensure they don't end up snagged on, damaging or even pulling up high voltage cables when retrieving their anchor."