Essential Energy has warned those involved in malicious damage or tampering to the electricity network that they are putting themselves at risk of serious injury or fatal consequences.
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From July to September 2018, 27 incidents related to network vandalism occurred across Essential Energy’s Northern – that contains the local area - (five), Southern (eight) and North Coast (14) regions.
Acting regional manager Northern, Jim Burdett, said dangerous acts of network vandalism are illegal, compromise safety and endanger lives.
“As the operator of one of Australia’s largest electricity networks, Essential Energy’s priority is the safety of its customers, employees, contractors and members of the public,” he said.
“Serious injury can occur without actually touching a powerline. Electricity can ‘arc’ or jump resulting in severe burns, electric shock and even death. Unplanned outages can also impact customers reliant upon power for life support equipment.”
Those who intentionally endanger their own lives and the lives of the public due to electricity network tampering risk prosecution.
“We ask the local community to report anyone acting suspiciously around the electricity network to Essential Energy on 13 20 80 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” Jim said.
Always stay at least eight metres away from a powerline on the ground, objects in contact with wires, or a low hanging powerline.
Essential Energy has asked the local community to report anyone acting suspiciously around the electricity network to Essential Energy on 13 20 80 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
For further information on safety around the electricity network, visit www.essentialenergy.com.au/safety