KUCHING, Jan 12: Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sarawak Energy) is monitoring the situation in Sarawak very closely as weather forecasts from the Malaysian Meteorological Department predict that several parts of the state will face strong winds and heavy rainfall in the coming weeks which may lead to floods in low-level and flood-prone areas.
According to a press statement, to keep the public safe from electrical hazards, Sarawak Energy will switch off the power supply to substations and other facilities without prior notice in the event of a flood or when rising water levels lead to dangerous situations. Power supply will only be restored when it is safe to do so.
During this time, members of the public are advised to be vigilant and practise the following safety precautions during heavy rain or rising water levels to minimise electricity-related risks:
BEFORE A FLOOD
– Turn off the home supply at the main switchboard at the earliest sign of rising water levels.
– Shut off and move electrical equipment to an elevated position or area above the anticipated flood level at the earliest sign of rising water levels.
DURING A FLOOD
– Avoid using or touching electrical devices or switches with wet or moist hands.
– Do not go near submerged electrical installations (i.e. poles, substations, transformers etc.).
– If in a boat in a flooded area, be cautious of power lines. Swollen rivers may elevate the water level closer to high tension lines.
AFTER A FLOOD
– Beware of fallen electrical poles or lines.
– Stay away from fallen electrical lines as they may still be live.
– Do not attempt to operate electrical appliances if these have been submerged in flood water as this may cause electrocution or fire.
– Engage a qualified electrician registered with the Syarikat SESCO Bhd to inspect home/building wirings before switching on the main supply. A list of registered electricians can be found at
https://www.sarawakenergy.com/customers/customer-service.
For more information, customers may contact Sarawak Energy’s 24/7 Customer Care Centre at 1300-88-3111 or email to customercare@sarawakenergy.com. Alternatively, customers may also reach the utility provider through Sarawak Energy’s mobile app SEB cares, which can be downloaded via Google Play Store and Apple App Store. — DayakDaily
