National Electricity Safety Week started on August 11 and ends on August 17.
Eskom Ekurhuleni zone communication practitioner, Ntombifuthi Hlophe, says the company continues to invest millions of rand towards public awareness and educational programmes in an effort to curb incidents related to unsafe use of electricity.
“Safety around electricity is something that everyone should consider, especially now as we celebrate this week.”
Hlophe says that Eskom’s main focus this year will be to embark on various campaigns aimed at highlighting the dangers of the unsafe use of electricity, such as cable theft, illegal connections and vandalism of Eskom’s network, which often results in serious injuries and even death.
“Safety is something that should also be taught to children who should be warned not to play near electrical installations or touch wires lying on the ground,” she warns.
Hlophe also warns the public to be careful around their homes, and to be aware at all times of exactly where powerlines are, as well as the height between the powerlines and the ground.
“Anything that interferes with a powerline has the potential of being fatal. Accidents can happen if you are carrying something on a roof, or installing a TV antenna without taking note of powerlines in the vicinity.
“It is essential that electricity is treated with respect,” Hlophe points out.
Eskom will visit various communities in Ekurhuleni to create awareness on electricity safety.
In case of emergency, you may contact Eskom on: 08600Eskom (37566) and for more information on electricity safety, send an e-mail to safety@eskom.co.za. – @TumeloBoksburg
