KUCHING: Members of the public are reminded to be cautious of the dangers of damaged electrical facilities from the recent stormy weather conditions as strong winds can cause electricity poles to break or fall.
In a statement issued by Sarawak Energy (SEB), members of the public must stay clear of fallen power lines as these may still be energised or live, posing a safety hazard.
The public should immediately alert Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialling 1300 88 3111 or through the SEB Cares mobile app to report the incident so the technical team can remove and replace the fallen electricity poles and power lines safely.
While the technical team is on high alert for speedy restoration of supply to areas affected by damaged poles, the public are advised to practice these safety tips, such as always assuming that every fallen power line is energised and alert Sarawak Energy immediately for assistance.
They are also advised to not touch a fallen power line and to keep a distance of at least 10m away from the site, as well as to not drive over them.
Should they find themselves in a situation whereby power lines have fallen on their vehicles, they are advised to remain inside their vehicle until help arrives, as well as to alert others to keep clear and not touch the vehicle.
If they have to leave the vehicle due to other dangers, they should jump away from the vehicle so that there is no direct contact and to try and land with both their feet on the ground at the same time, then shuffle at least 10m away from the site.
SEB also advised members of the public to not walk or run as a downed line creates a voltage gradient on the ground surface, so walking or running causes your legs to act as a bridge between two areas of different voltages, forming a circuit for electricity to travel.
“If you continue to keep your feet together, then a circuit can’t be formed for electricity from the ground to travel,” said the press statement.
