Storm Atiyah, which hit last weekend, should remind us how quickly weather can change at this time of year and the dangers this can bring. Electricity is all around us and we very much take it for granted. This leads us to generally assume it is always safe and we can lower our guard but we must always treat electricity with the respect it deserves.
Remember, there are no second chances with electricity. Only a fraction of the current it takes to light a bulb is enough to cause electric shock and this may even result in a fatality. This year already there have been 20 serious incidents recorded involving electricity. Some have involved felling trees and some stacking bales while others occurred where poles and stays were damaged. In another recent incident, cattle were killed when the electricity wires came to the ground.
ESB Networks staff will always respond to these emergencies, but it is each person’s responsibility to recognise the potential for danger and act safely where there are overhead electricity wires or underground cables nearby. Be aware of the potential dangers involved and never take chances.
Time-specific risks
At this time of year, it is important to be aware of the risk of fallen wires and when hedge-cutting to watch out for concealed parts of the pole and the stay wire. Always clear hedge material away from near the pole by hand. Do not be tempted to use the hedge cutter, no matter how skilled of an operator you are.
If there are trees near wires, contact ESB Networks because it may be necessary to switch out the power line before trees or hedges can be cut safely. Please remember that electricity wires are always live and are never safe to approach or touch.
In an emergency or where you have a safety concern involving the electricity network, contact ESB Networks immediately on 1850-372 999. There is also more information on our website: www.esbnetworks.ie/staying-safe/safety-at-home/safety-at-home
Christmas safety message
ESB Networks is also reminding all electricity customers to never take risks with electricity during this festive period. As always, ESB poles should never be used to hang anything from, including Christmas lights.
In putting up outdoor Christmas lights and decorations, it is important to first check that there are no overhead wires nearby. You must always keep a safe distance because electricity is very powerful and can jump gaps.
Make sure outdoor wiring and lights, etc, are properly rated for outdoor use and plug them into a portable residual current device (RCD) (sometimes called a “trip switch”) for extra safety.
It is crucial that anyone operating machinery knows the steps to follow if they come in contact with electricity wires.
It could be fatal for anyone who touches the machine and it is important to remember that rubber tyres or rubber-soled boots will not insulate against a high-voltage shock.
Boots can be destroyed and tyres can burst into flames.
The following are the steps that should be taken:
Step 1: Keep clear
Step 2: Get help
Step 3: Jump clear
Step 4: Stay clear
Step 5: Safe operation
Do not climb out of the vehicle or attempt to operate the vehicle while standing on the ground outside the vehicle.