MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited (MEDL) has called on electricity consumers to observe strict safety precautions during the rainy season to prevent electrocution, accidents and damage to property following recent heavy rainfall, windstorms and flooding across parts of Enugu State.
The company’s Head of Communications, Mr. Emeka Ezeh, gave the warning on Monday while speaking with journalists in Enugu, urging residents to remain vigilant around electrical installations as adverse weather conditions increase the risk of electrical hazards.
Ezeh advised customers to stay indoors or seek safe shelter during rainfall and avoid standing under trees or close to electricity poles, power lines and other electrical facilities.
“Customers should 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 said.
He explained that heavy rains and strong winds could bring down trees and electricity poles, resulting in snapped power lines and exposed electrical installations capable of causing electrocution and other life-threatening incidents.
The MEDL spokesman also cautioned customers against handling electrical appliances, switches, sockets and other fittings with wet hands, stressing the need for proper insulation and regular maintenance of electrical installations in homes and business premises to prevent faults.
Ezeh further appealed to parents and guardians to keep children away from electrical installations and other potential hazards during the rainy season.
He also encouraged customers to unplug sensitive electrical appliances during severe thunderstorms to protect them from lightning-induced power surges that could damage equipment.
The communications chief urged members of the public to promptly report fallen electricity poles, snapped conductors, faulty transformers and other unsafe electrical installations through the company’s emergency channels.
“Customers should 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 the Quick Response Team through the Customer Call Centre on 02084700100 or 07074609958 for immediate response,” he said.
Reaffirming the company’s commitment to public safety, Ezeh assured customers that MainPower would continue to implement proactive measures to ensure the safe and reliable distribution of electricity throughout the rainy season.
He also urged customers to cooperate with the company by observing all electrical safety guidelines and promptly reporting any hazards capable of endangering lives or disrupting power supply.
