AS the storm season approaches, Essential Energy is advising residents across regional New South Wales to prepare their properties early to keep their families safe during severe weather events.
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Strong winds and wild weather increase the risk of damage to the overhead electricity network, particularly from vegetation and trees that are growing too close to powerlines.
Essential Energy’s regional manager South Eastern, Phillip Green, urged residents to remove debris from around their homes, clear gutters and ensure trees were a safe distance from powerlines.
“The majority of storm-related power supply interruptions are caused by tree branches and debris being blown into overhead powerlines,” he said.
“In these situations, residents are reminded to keep at least eight metres clear of fallen powerlines or any objects in contact with them and always assume the wires are live.
“Be mindful when walking or driving after a storm that fallen tree branches may also hide damaged powerlines or other electrical equipment.”
Essential Energy recommends households have a storm emergency kit ready that includes:
- - a flashlight with a supply of batteries
- - candles and waterproof matches
- - a portable radio with spare batteries to keep you informed of the situation
- - non-perishable food, a can opener, and fresh drinking water
- - spare warm dry clothing
- - a first aid kit and essential medications, and
- - a list of emergency contact numbers, including
Essential Energy’s 13 20 80 number In an emergency, Essential Energy crews will isolate fault areas and clear fallen vegetation from powerlines to make communities safe and, where possible, back-feed power from other areas.
Major powerlines are re-energised first to restore electricity to the majority of customers.
Once this is completed, field crews target individual faults and customers’ problems, such as broken house service lines.
“We encourage residents to report any fallen powerlines, network damage, fires or trees contacting powerlines to Essential Energy on 13 20 80 or call Triple-0 if the situation is life-threatening,” he said.
For more information on electrical safety during storms, visit essentialenergy.com.au/safety or call Essential Energy on 13 23 91.
