Territorians are being urged to recognise the warning signs of electrical problems around their homes this Electrical Safety Week.
A tingle or shock from a tap, flickering lights, appliances behaving strangely or electric shocks around your home can all be a sign something is wrong with your electricity supply.
Power and Water’s Executive General Manager Power Services, Belinda Small, said unusual electrical activity should never be ignored.
‘Listen to what your home is telling you,’ Belinda said. ‘Electricity is something we use every day, so it can be easy to become complacent. But if something doesn’t seem right, take it seriously.
‘A shock or tingle from a tap or appliance, flickering lights or appliances suddenly behaving oddly can all indicate a serious electrical problem. If you experience any of these, stay clear and call us on 1800 245 090. If there is an immediate threat to life, call Triple Zero.’
Electrical Safety Week, which runs from 7-11 September, is also a timely reminder to look outside your home, particularly as Territorians prepare their yards ahead of the severe weather season.
While Power and Water operates a regular tree-trimming program to keep trees away from overhead powerlines in the street, property owners are responsible for keeping vegetation clear of the service line that runs from the power pole to their property. Trees and vegetation should be kept at least 0.5 metres from this service line.
‘Remember, don't put yourself at risk by attempting to trim vegetation that is too close to electrical infrastructure,’ Belinda said. ‘Before you start trimming, look up and check where your service line and nearby powerlines are. If vegetation is already too close or you’re unsure whether it’s safe to trim, stop and call us on 1800 245 092 for advice.
‘Keeping vegetation clear helps protect your family, our crews and the electricity network, and can reduce the risk of outages.’
Power and Water is also reminding Territorians to stay away from damaged power poles and substations, fallen powerlines and other electrical infrastructure.
‘Always assume electrical infrastructure is live and dangerous,’ Belinda said. ‘If you see a fallen powerline, damaged equipment, an open or damaged electrical cabinet, or anything that doesn’t look right, stay well away and make sure others do too. If you see something, say something. Calling us could prevent someone from being seriously injured.'
Media contact: 0401 117 599 / media@powerwater.com.au
