With a severe weather warning issued for parts of South Eastern NSW this afternoon, Essential Energy has issued a warning to customers to be well prepared in the event of an interruption to power during extreme weather conditions.
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Essential Energy regional general manager South Eastern, Phillip Green, urges households to put together a family disaster plan and an emergency kit that’s easy to access if the power goes out.
Emergency kits should include:
a flashlight with a supply of the right sized batteries
candles and waterproof matches (if lit, never leave unattended)
a portable radio with spare batteries to keep you informed on the status of the power interruption and emergency situation
food that doesn't require cooking and fresh drinking water
a manually operated can opener
spare warm, dry clothing
a first aid kit
a list of emergency contact numbers, including Essential Energy’s 13 20 80 number
Essential Energy also recommends access to a telephone that doesn’t work off mains power (only use the phone once the storm has passed) and a fully charged mobile phone to use if mobile phone towers are operational.
“In the event of an unplanned power interruption, Essential Energy’s field crews will be out in force working to restore electricity in the safest, most efficient manner,” Phillip said.
Phillip also said that it’s important to remember that if a line does come down in wild winds, people should stay at least eight metres away from it.
Essential Energy reminds customers to remain alert during storm season and contact 13 20 80 if they experience an interruption to their power – even if they believe the energy company is aware of the problem – to help establish the extent of the issue and respond accordingly.
See current weather updates and radar here.
