Eskom warning ahead of severe storms

ESKOM is warning South Africans to be cautious of overhead power cables that are damaged, collapsed or low-hanging as a result of stormy weather conditions, vandalism or illegal connections.

This comes ahead of the arrival of tropical cyclone Eloise, making landfall in Mozambique.

ALSO READ: Port of Richards Bay issues warning ahead of tropical storm ‘Eloise’

‘Severe wind and rainstorms can damage electrical infrastructure and, while Eskom will attend to damaged infrastructure as soon as possible, there are precautions people can implement for their safety in homes and businesses,’ said Miranda Moahlodi, Senior Manager for Occupational Health and Safety at Eskom.

She said there is an increased risk of injury during the rainy season as water is a conductor of electricity.

Illegally-connected cables also lack safety features, such as protective insulation and correct height.

This makes them accessible to children, with potentially serious consequences.

5 safety tips that could save a life
1. Turn off the main switch in the home if water enters the house
2. Remove all electrical equipment such as heaters, chargers, fans and power extensions off the floor and place them on high surfaces to avoid water damage
3. If your area has illegal connections it is best to report these to Eskom on 0800 112722 to have them removed
4. If you suspect that any of your electrical appliances have had contact with water, do not use them until you have had a professional declare them safe to use
5. Do not remove trees or branches that may have fallen over, especially when it is raining, rather contact the municipality. If a power cable has made contact with the fallen tree or branch, it may cause an electric shock when touched

Eskom is appealing for people to be cautious during stormy conditions and avoid touching exposed or low-hanging power cables.