Kids urged to ‘play safe and stay safe’ this summer

Rachele Glendinning, NIE safety officer, has been visiting primary schools across Northern Ireland to deliver NIE’s Kidzsafe programme and wants parents to also spend some time reminding their children of the dangers of electricity.

Rachele said: “During the school holidays, as our young people head out to play, they need to know that they could be hurt or even killed if they climb pylons, go near overhead power lines or into substations.

“Interfering with the electricity network, accidentally or otherwise, can prove fatal, and we’re appealing to parents and guardians to spend time talking to their children about the dangers of power lines and substations.

“Electricity wires, pylons and substations are located within our local communities and young people should avoid playing in the vicinity of any of these potentially hazardous things. Following simple advice and being aware may just save a life.

“If your football, frisbee or even your pet gets inside the perimeter of a substation, don’t go anywhere near it – call our Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643 and we’ll organise for one of our engineers to retrieve it for you,” Rachele added. “Tell your friends and remember to always look out for them as well.

“Also keep away from empty or derelict buildings and never climb trees or other structures or fly kites, model aircraft or drones near overhead power lines.

“If you spot anything potentially unsafe, give us a call and we’ll be more than happy to send out our emergency crews. Doing the right thing and avoiding the extreme risks of live electricity ensures everyone can remain safe and have fun throughout the school holidays.”

Visit the interactive Kidzsafe section at nie.co.uk for more information about the dangers of electricity.

Contact NIE at any time to report safety concerns or for advice on 03457 643643.