1000 city kids get accident advice

Kevin McDowell, Head of Health, Safety and Environment at Northern Ireland Electricity - one of the organisations taking part - said: “Electricity pylons, poles and substations can attract adventurous youngsters but our advice is simple – stay safe by staying away from electricity equipment.”

The Bee Safe initiative is co-ordinated by the Western Trust’s Health Improvement Department and funded by Northern Ireland Electricity and the PSNI.

Children move around seven accident themed scenarios in small groups over either a morning or afternoon session. The initiative is delivered by agencies including the Northern Ireland Electricity, the PSNI, Derry City Council, NI Fire and Rescue Service, Translink and Divert.

Sarah Davidson, Health Development Worker with the Western Trust Health Improvement Department and co-ordinator of the scheme highlights, “The key to its success is the partnership approach to delivery of accident prevention messages. Many organisations have given their time and expertise to highlight accident prevention and safety messages which could potentially save a child’s life.”

Kevin McDowell, Head of Health, Safety and Environment at Northern Ireland Electricity, says, “NIE has always taken a very pro-active response to public safety and we are delighted to once again sponsor the Bee Safe event this week. It is crucial that children understand the dangers of playing near electricity substations and overhead lines.

He added: “We believe this interactive approach helps pupils understand more about how the electricity network operates and how they can keep themselves and their friends safe.”