The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has urged South-East residents to prioritise safety in the use of electricity as the rainy season fully sets in. The Group Head, Corporate Communications (EEDC), Mr. Emeka Ezeh, gave the task on Monday in Enugu, in an advisory statement issued to the media.
Ezeh noted that the season often comes with increased risks of electrical hazards, such as electrocution, electrical fires, and damage to appliances. The advisory is necessary considering the nature of the electricity network obtainable in our environment, where electrical wires/conductors are installed overhead, according to him.
“Thus, exposing electrical wires/conductors to heavy rain, flooding, lightning, and high winds, which can cause electrical faults and damage,” he said. Ezeh said that lightning can strike power lines or buildings, posing a risk of electrical shocks or electrocution, and could also cause power surges on electrical appliances and equipment.
He said, “In addition, strong winds knock down power lines, creating electrical hazards while downed power lines and water-logged installations, equally pose serious dangers to lives and property. With all these conditions in mind, it is imperative that as a responsible corporate organisation, we educate our customers on the need to stay safe during the rainy season.
“These precautions are essential to prevent electrical shocks and fatalities. During this season, we usually experience cases of fallen poles caused by heavy storms and dangling wires, and we advise our customers to avoid contact with them and immediately report such through the emergency line (08150824301).”
He advised customers not to touch electrical equipment with wet hands and ensure that they always dry their hands before handling electrical appliances, “as water itself is a conductor of electricity”.
The EEDC spokesman said, “Parents are to ensure that children stay away from electrical poles, transformers, and open wires. They should avoid playing in the rain and in flooded areas, especially if electricity is still on as there might be contact with fallen or collapsed cables/conductors, making it a death trap.
“Switching off electrical appliances during thunderstorms is a very smart safety precaution to prevent damage from power surges.”
Ezeh emphasised the need to always engage the services of professionals and licensed electricians for repairs or wiring and ensure proper earthling (place of earth wire) in their homes to prevent electrical shocks.
“At EEDC, the safety of our customers and their property is our priority, and we remain committed to delivering safe and reliable electricity to them,” he said.
