KUCHING: Avoid using electrical appliances during flooding – that’s the biggest red flag from Sarawak Energy Berhad as it issued tips yesterday on public safety in flood prone areas regarding the risk of electrocution in households.
In a press statement issued yesterday, SEB said that to ensure public safety, the utility continuously monitors the flood situation and will switch off supply to substations in flood-hit areas if the water reaches dangerous levels.
The following safety precautions should be taken during the current rainy season, as electrical hazards pose a major safety risk during flooding, the pinnacle of which is prevention: Before any flood, move electrical equipment to higher ground above the anticipated flood level at the earliest sign of rising flood waters; and to avoid using electrical appliances during flooding.
“One of the basic but most crucial steps to take when flooding occurs is to switch off all electrical power by turning off the main switchboard.”
“Once water has entered the building and if the main power switch is not turned off yet, members of the public must not attempt to turn it off.
“Do not go near Sesco electrical installations which are submerged or affected by flood water. Parents are advised to monitor their children, especially when playing in flood water, to ensure they do not approach or go near snapped electrical wires as they might still conduct electricity. When boating in a flooded area, be extra-cautious of low hanging power lines,” the statement said.
Meanwhile after the flood, if an electrical appliance or installation has been submerged in water, it should not be switched on even after flood water recedes as there are risks of electrocution or fire.
Before switching the main supply back on, the public are advised to have a qualified electrician to inspect all wiring and appliances.
For more lifesaving electrical safety tips, Sarawak Energy has prepared an electrical safety message which is available on its corporate website at www.sarawakenergy.com.my .
Customers can also follow the SEB tips on twitter for updates via @1sarawakenergy.
They may also seek more information by calling Sarawak Energy’s Customer Care Centre which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1300-88-3111.
To ensure the safety of its customers, it is a practice for Sarawak Energy through its subsidiary, Syarikat Sesco Berhad to switch off the electricity supply to any affected areas without notice.
The power supply will be restored as soon as it is safe to do so. Sarawak Energy appreciates the understanding, patience and cooperation from members of the public during this situation as safety is its first priority.