04/06/2004

NIE issue warning to DIYers

Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) today warned anyone undertaking DIY projects to take the location of the electricity network into account before starting work.

The safety warning follows an incident in Beragh, Co Tyrone where a man received an electric shock when the ladder he was carrying came into contact with the high voltage overhead line.

Over 160 customers in the Ranelly, Tullykeel and Drunconnelly areas of Beragh lost electricity supplies for a short time on Thursday while NIE engineers carried out repairs to the electricity equipment.

Julie Cole, NIE Safety Officer, appealed to the public to be aware of electricity equipment when carrying out work.

“Luckily in this incident the man involved was not killed but the result could have been very different," she said. "Electricity has a lethal potential and should always be treated with care. With the good weather many people will be carrying out work around the home and garden."

Guidelines for working in the vicinity of overhead lines and underground cables are available by telephoning 08457 643 643.

(MB)

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