KUCHING: People have been advised to be cautious if they see or come near damaged power lines and electrical poles caused by adverse weather conditions.
Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) on Wednesday (Nov 2) said this was cause damaged electrical facilities may still be energised or live, posing a safety hazard.
“Sarawak Energy is monitoring the weather situation in Sarawak as weather forecasts from the Meteorological Department predict that several parts of the state will face strong winds and heavy rainfall during this rainy season.
“To keep the public safe from electrical hazards, Sarawak Energy will switch off power supply to substations and other facilities without prior notice in the event of a flood or when rising water levels lead to dangerous situations,” it said.
Power supply will only be restored when it is safe to do so.
It added the public is advised to be vigilant and practise safety precautions during heavy rain or rising water levels to minimise electricity-related risks.
Among the safety precautions mentioned by SEB is to turn off the home supply main switchboard at the earliest sign of rising water levels, shut off and move electrical equipment to an elevated position or area above the anticipated flood level at the earliest sign of rising water levels.
Meanwhile it is also advised during a flood to avoid using or touching electrical devices or switches with wet or moist hands, not go near submerged electrical installations and if in a boat in a flooded area to be cautious of power lines as swollen rivers may elevate the water level closer to high tension lines.
After a flood SEB also advised the people to beware and stay away from fallen electrical poles or lines and not attempt to operate electrical appliances that were submerged in flood water as it may cause electrocution and fire.
“Engage a qualified electrician registered with the Syarikat Sesco Bhd to inspect home or building wiring before switching on the main supply,” it added.
A list of registered electricians can be found on https://www.sarawakenergy.com/customers/customer-service.
The public may get in touch with Sarawak Energy’s 24 hours technical team at 1300-88-3111 or chat with Virtual Agent CARINA at https://www.sarawakenergy.com/ or through the SEB Cares mobile app to report incidents.
