By Tony Adibe
MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) has advised its millions of customers to prioritize electrical safety during the rainy season to prevent accidents, electrocution, and damage to property.
The Head of Communications, MEDL, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, gave the advice on Monday in Enugu during a chat with newsmen following recent heavy rainfall, windstorms, and flooding experienced across parts of the state.
Ezeh also urged customers to remain indoors or seek safe shelter during rainfall and “avoid taking refuge under trees or standing close to electricity poles, power lines, or other electrical installations, as these may pose serious safety risks.” He explained that heavy rains and strong winds can cause trees and electricity poles to collapse, resulting in snapped conductors and exposed electrical installations that could lead to electrocution or other life-threatening incidents.
Ezeh further advised customers to “avoid touching electrical appliances, switches, sockets, or other electrical fittings with wet hands.”Β He emphasised the importance of ensuring that electrical installations in homes and business premises are properly insulated and maintained to prevent electrical faults.
He pleaded with parents and guardians to keep children away from electrical installations and other potential hazards, encouraging them to unplug sensitive electrical appliances during severe thunderstorms to minimize the risk of lightning-induced power surges that could damage equipment.
Ezeh further implored customers to promptly report emergencies such as fallen electricity poles, snapped conductors, damaged transformers, or any other unsafe electrical installations by calling the company’s emergency line on 08150824301 or contacting its Quick Response Team (QRT) through the Customer Call Centre on 02084700100 or 07074609958 for immediate response.
The company’s spokesman, however, reassured customers that “MainPower remains committed to their safety and well-being and will continue to take proactive measures to ensure the safe and reliable distribution of electricity throughout the rainy season.”
