Rainy Season:EEDC Sensitises Customers On Against Electrocution
The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has advised customers to prioritise safety when handling electrical appliances and connection during rainy season.
Mr Emeka Ezeh, Head, Corporate Communications of EEDC made the call in a Statement made available to journalists in Awka on Monday.
Ezeh said the rainy season came with increased risks of electrical hazards, such as electrocution, electrical fires, and damage to appliances.
Ezeh said the advisory was necessary considering the nature of the electricity network obtainable in the environment where electrical wires/conductors were installed overhead, exposing them to heavy rain, flooding, lightning, and high winds which could cause electrical faults and damage.
He said lightning could strike power lines or buildings, posing a risk of electrical shocks or electrocution and could also cause power surges, damaging electrical appliances and equipment.
He said during the rainy season, there were usually cases of fallen poles caused by heavy storms and dangling wires, and advised to report such cases through the emergency line (08150824301).
‘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.
“Precautions are essential to prevent electrical shocks and fatalities.
“Customers are advised not to touch electrical equipment with wet hands and ensure they always dry their hands before handling any electrical appliance because water itself is a conductor of electricity,” he said.
Ezeh urged parents to ensure that children stayed away from electrical poles, transformers, open wires and ensured they switched off electrical appliances during thunderstorms.
According to Ezeh, there is need to always engage the services of professionals and licensed electricians for repairs or wiring and ensure proper earthing in their homes to prevent electrical shocks.
“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.
“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.
