Storm Atiyah, which hit last weekend, should remind us how quickly weather can change at this time of year and the dangers this can bring. Electricity is all around us and we very much take it for granted. This leads us to generally assume it is always safe and we can lower our guard but we must always treat electricity with the respect it deserves.

Operators of equipment should remind themselves of how to react if equipment comes in contact with overhead wires. \ Ramona Farrelly

Remember, there are no second chances with electricity. Only a fraction of the current it takes to light a bulb is enough to cause electric shock and this may even result in a fatality. This year already there have been 20 serious incidents recorded involving electricity. Some have involved felling trees and some stacking bales while others occurred where poles and stays were damaged. In another recent incident, cattle were killed when the electricity wires came to the ground.

Weather can change quickly at this time of year with storms posing a significant risk to public safety. \ Ramona Farrelly

ESB Networks staff will always respond to these emergencies, but it is each person’s responsibility to recognise the potential for danger and act safely where there are overhead electricity wires or underground cables nearby. Be aware of the potential dangers involved and never take chances.

Time-specific risks

At this time of year, it is important to be aware of the risk of fallen wires and when hedge-cutting to watch out for concealed parts of the pole and the stay wire. Always clear hedge material away from near the pole by hand. Do not be tempted to use the hedge cutter, no matter how skilled of an operator you are.

Poles should be cleared around by hand and not with a hedge cutter. \ Philip Doyle

If there are trees near wires, contact ESB Networks because it may be necessary to switch out the power line before trees or hedges can be cut safely. Please remember that electricity wires are always live and are never safe to approach or touch.

In an emergency or where you have a safety concern involving the electricity network, contact ESB Networks immediately on 1850-372 999. There is also more information on our website: www.esbnetworks.ie/staying-safe/safety-at-home/safety-at-home

Christmas safety message

ESB Networks is also reminding all electricity customers to never take risks with electricity during this festive period. As always, ESB poles should never be used to hang anything from, including Christmas lights.

Check Christmas lights and decorations for damaged or frayed wires, loose connections, damaged or cracked plugs and any signs of discolouration.

In putting up outdoor Christmas lights and decorations, it is important to first check that there are no overhead wires nearby. You must always keep a safe distance because electricity is very powerful and can jump gaps.

Make sure outdoor wiring and lights, etc, are properly rated for outdoor use and plug them into a portable residual current device (RCD) (sometimes called a “trip switch”) for extra safety.

Tips for the home and farm

  • 1 Only use electrical equipment that is fit for purpose and in good condition; this includes Christmas lights, wiring, light fittings and sockets.
  • 2 Check for damaged or frayed wires, loose connections, damaged or cracked plugs and any signs of discoloration. Disconnect immediately – it is always safer to disconnect remotely at the distribution board – and replace.
  • 3 Be aware that electrical equipment generates heat, so keep combustible materials clear, including light fittings, heaters, decorations and any other combustible materials.
  • 4 Switch off all electrical appliances, including Christmas lights, and phone chargers last thing at night and when leaving the house.
  • 5 Always unwind extension leads completely to avoid overheating and don’t overload sockets with adaptors or extension blocks.
  • 6 Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working.
  • 7 Check that the residual current device (RCD, sometimes called a “trip switch”) works by pushing the test button. This is located at your electrical distribution board.
  • 8 Always get advice from an electrical contractor when carrying out electrical repairs. For more information, see www.safeelectric.ie.
  • It is crucial that anyone operating machinery knows the steps to follow if they come in contact with electricity wires.

    It could be fatal for anyone who touches the machine and it is important to remember that rubber tyres or rubber-soled boots will not insulate against a high-voltage shock.

    Boots can be destroyed and tyres can burst into flames.

    The following are the steps that should be taken:

    Step 1: Keep clear

  • The driver of a vehicle that comes into contact with overhead lines will usually remain safe in the cab of the vehicle. Other people are at risk if they make contact with the vehicle (and anything attached to it) and the ground.
  • Step 2: Get help

  • You or someone else should contact ESB Networks’ emergency number (1850-372 999) immediately.
  • Step 3: Jump clear

  • If you have to leave the cab, jump well clear so that no simultaneous contact is made between you, the vehicle and the ground. Land on your feet and do not touch the ground with your hands. Move away at once using short steps or bunny hop with both feet together.
  • Step 4: Stay clear

  • Do not go back to the vehicle, even if you think it is safe to do so. It may still be live. Nobody should approach the vehicle until ESB Networks has confirmed that it is safe to do so.
  • Step 5: Safe operation

  • If the vehicle is not tangled with the overhead line, reverse away until contact is broken.
  • Do not climb out of the vehicle or attempt to operate the vehicle while standing on the ground outside the vehicle.