Don’t cut back on safety - NIE warning

According to NIE, branches then hit an overhead electricity line, breaking it. NIE emergency crews responded, carrying out safety checks and repairing the overhead line.

The company, which is putting out the autumn message “Cut With Care” to homeowners and farmers, says it was ‘lucky there were no injuries’.

The new safety campaign is aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of felling trees and cutting hedges close to the electricity network.

The campaign is part of NIE’s ongoing public safety programme and follows a recent spate of incidents where overhead electricity lines and poles have been damaged when vegetation was being cut.

Kevin McDowell, NIE Health, Safety and Environment Manager, said: “Every year people put themselves at risk because they do not follow the correct safety guidelines. Any contact with live electricity equipment may result in injury, or even death. We ask anyone considering this type of work to consult with NIE prior to work starting.

“This type of damage to the electricity network may also cause local communities to lose their electricity supplies, inconveniencing homes, schools and businesses in the area.

“It’s time for everyone working near electricity equipment to put safety first, every time. Our message is clear - look up, look out and stay away from overhead lines,” said Kevin.

If you are planning work in the vicinity of the electricity network please contact NIE on 08457 643 643. For more safety advice visit www.nie.co.uk