Kite sparks electricity safety warning

Northern Ireland Electricity engineers had to isolate the line to remove the kite and this left 212 customers in the area without power from 1.30pm-1.55pm on Tuesday afternoon.

Roy Coulter, NIE Health and Safety Director, said: “Fortunately on this occasion no-one was hurt but it should serve as a timely reminder to be careful when playing close to overhead powerlines.

“If you are flying kites, fishing, playing football or putting up tents, always look up and make sure you stay well away from overhead electricity lines and substations.”

NIE has set up a Kidzsafe website, especially designed for school children, that will teach them about the journey of electricity and how they can keep themselves and their friends safe.

There are also Parent-Teacher factsheets, as well as an educational resource for Key Stage Three pupils. For more information, visit www.nie.co.uk.