See ECG’s 5-point safety directive for the rainy season

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is sounding the alarm on the serious dangers posed by the combination of heavy rains and electricity, urging Ghanaians to exercise extreme caution as rainstorms continue to batter several parts of the country.

In a public advisory titled "Rainstorm and Electricity – A Dangerous Combination", the power distributor warned that fallen power lines, flooded streets and damaged electrical equipment have become common hazards that could easily claim lives during this rainy season.

Avoid sagging electrical conductors during rainy days – ECG urges public

The company stressed that rain and electricity do not mix, advising the public to treat every fallen power line as live and extremely dangerous.

"Never assume a fallen line is safe. It may be live and deadly," the notice read.

ECG further cautioned against walking through flooded areas near electrical installations, as submerged equipment can still carry lethal current. The company also advised households to unplug electrical appliances during thunderstorms to avoid shocks and damage.

"Stay alert, stay safe," the advisory concluded.

The warning comes after recent heavy rains and the spillage of the Weija Dam caused flooding that submerged several distribution substations, leading to power outages in communities such as Ashbread, White Cross, Kinshasha and Tetegu.

Key safety messages from ECG include:

1. Stay away from fallen power lines. Never assume a fallen line is safe. It may be live and deadly.

2. Unplug electrical appliances during thunderstorms. This helps prevent damage to appliances and reduces the risk of electric shock.

3. Never walk through flooded areas near electrical installations. Submerged electrical equipment can be live and cause electrocution.

4. Assume any fallen line is live. Even if a power line appears inactive or safe, treat it as dangerous at all times.

5. Report hazards immediately. Contact ECG on 0302611611 to report fallen lines, damaged equipment or any electrical danger in your community.

NA/VPO

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