KUCHING, Feb 4: Members of the public are reminded to be cautious of the dangers of damaged electrical facilities from the recent stormy weather conditions as strong winds can cause electricity poles to break or fall.
Sarawak Energy Berhad (Sarawak Energy) in a statement today advised the public to stay clear of these fallen power lines as they may still be energised or live, posing a safety hazard.
Should the public come across any damaged or fallen electrical facilities, they are advised to immediately alert Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1300 88 3111 or through the SEB Cares mobile app to report the incident so a technical team can remove and replace the fallen electricity poles and power lines safely.
Sarawak Energy said while the technical team is on high alert for speedy restoration of power supply to areas affected by damaged poles, the public are advised to practise the following safety tips:
• Always assume every fallen power line is energised and alert Sarawak Energy immediately for assistance.
• If the public see a fallen power line, do not touch it and keep at least 10m away from the site.
• Do not drive over fallen power lines.
In a situation where power lines fall on a vehicle while being driven, the public are advised to be aware of the following:
• Remain inside the vehicle until help arrives and alert others so as to keep clear and not to touch the vehicle.
• If they must leave the vehicle due to other dangers such as fire, jump away from the vehicle so that they do not touch the vehicle and try to land with both feet on the ground at the same time.
“Continue to keep your feet together at all times on the ground and shuffle at least 10m away from the site.
“Do not walk or run as it is dangerous to do so. A downed line creates a voltage gradient (electrical arcs) on the ground surface so walking or running cause your legs to act as a bridge between two areas of different voltages, forming a circuit for electricity to travel.
“If you continue to keep your feet together, then a circuit can’t be formed for electricity from the ground to travel,” Sarawak Energy advised. — DayakDaily
