POWER utility Eskom has advised residents on how to deal with load shedding, should it come their way. Certain areas were affected by power cuts last week due to Eskom staff downing tools over wage negotiations.
Last week the utility’s employees affiliated with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) stopped working, demanding a 15 per cent salary increase while the utility said there would be no increase.
Also read: Workers unions ‘disgusted’ by Eskom
In a statement Eskom said the risk for load shedding during the course of the week remains high due to a shortage of capacity from the effects of the strike action.
“Some employees continue to work around the clock to restore stability to operations and supply. We assure customers that all available emergency energy resources are used, before load shedding is implemented,” said Eskom.
The utility has also apologised to residents for the inconvenience.
You may also be interested in: No load shedding – promises Eskom
“We continue to encourage residents and businesses to continue using electricity sparingly. Switch off geysers during the day especially during peak periods (7am to 10am and 6pm to 9pm as well as all non-essential lighting and electricity appliances to assist in reducing demand. Remember to treat all electrical points as live during a power outage,” added the utility.
The schedule for the anticipated load shedding changes from time to time. To check for an updated schedule residents can visit the Eskom website (loadshedding.eskom.co.za), or contact the customer contact centre on 0860 037 566.
Eskom’s load shedding tips:
- Think about your safety and communication by keeping your cell phone/laptop/tablet always fully charged when power is available and keep temporary lighting readily available.
- Watch the World Cup at a pub or at the home of a family member or friend who is not on the day’s load shedding schedule.
For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follows us Instagram
