Stay safe around electricity when storms strike
Published Date: 15 Dec 2015
Summary
Media Release Essential Energy
10 December 2015
Stay safe around electricity when storms strike
With storm season underway, Essential Energy is reminding residents to prepare their homes and watch out for any weather-related damage to the electricity network.
Regional manager Northern, Mark Summers, encouraged residents to remove debris from around their homes, clear gutters, and ensure trees are a safe distance from powerlines ahead of any severe weather.
“Storm season traditionally occurs from September through to March and can see our electricity network battered by heavy rain, hail and high winds,” Mark said.
“It’s not uncommon for vegetation and debris to be blown into powerlines during storms, damaging the wires and causing them to fall to the ground.”
Essential Energy urged the public to stay at least eight metres away from damaged or fallen powerlines.
“Always treat powerlines as live and remember that anything in contact with them, such as cars, trees or fences, can conduct electricity and pose a danger,” Mark said.
“Be aware that fallen powerlines may not always be visible in paddocks or rugged countryside, or could be hidden by storm debris.”
If you notice fallen trees, deceased animals, smoke, fire or scorched areas around electrical equipment, call Essential Energy immediately on 13 20 80.
In an emergency, Essential Energy crews will isolate fault areas and clear fallen vegetation from powerlines to secure the safety of the area before beginning power supply restoration.
Major powerlines are re-energised first to restore electricity to the majority of customers. Once this is complete, field crews target individual faults and customers’ problems, such as broken house service lines.
For more information on electrical safety, visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or contact Essential Energy on 13 23 91.
