Power blackout after driver crashes into electricity pole between Stewartstown and Cookstown

An electricity pole supporting 33,000 volt overhead lines was broken following a road traffic collision, but the third party responsible failed to report the damage to NIE Networks.

NIE Networks emergency crews located the damage and began the repair process, disconnecting electricity supplies to 31 customers in the area to enable the crews to work safely.

Fiona McClintock, NIE Networks Customer Relations Manager says any damage to the electricity network should be reported immediately. “In this instance the driver of the vehicle broke a high voltage electricity pole but then drove off, leaving a potentially dangerous situation.

“Luckily we were able to locate the damage and carry out repairs but we would urge everyone to report any damage to the overhead or underground network to NIE Networks as soon as possible.”

Anyone working in the vicinity of overhead lines should carry out their work in accordance with Health and Safety Executive guidelines, particularly GS6.

NIE Networks currently offers the farming community a wide range of advice and assistance to help them avoid both overhead lines and underground cables including advice leaflets, videos and maps and diagrams of the electricity network.

Visit nienetworks.co.uk for more safety advice or contact NIE Networks on 03457 643 643.