Be prepared for the storm season
Last Saturday night’s thunderstorm across the Ballina Shire region gave us an early reminder that it’s storm time, and Country Energy is reminding people that the warmer weather of spring heralds the start of the severe thunderstorm season.
Each year, on average, severe thunderstorms are responsible for more damage (as measured by insurance costs) than tropical cyclones, earthquakes, floods or bushfires.
These storms, which are more common than any other natural hazard, pose a danger to people and property, including powerlines and electrical equipment.
With this in mind, Country Energy is asking people to be prepared for storms, know what to do in a severe storm, and to stay informed.
Country Energy’s regional general manager for the Far North Coast, Brian Glawson, said: “Severe thunderstorms generally occur from September to March, which is when we experience our highest incidence of unplanned electricity supply interruptions.
“Almost a third of all unplanned supply interruptions on Country Energy’s network are weather related – this includes lightning strikes and storm damage.
“This is also the time when we ask people to remain vigilant for fallen powerlines, damaged power poles and other electrical hazards.”
Country Energy encourages people to prepare for storm season by:
Clearing yards of loose materials and rubbish
Checking and securing tiles or roofing sheets that may blow loose and come into contact with the power supply.
Assessing the potential for trees or overhanging branches to touch powerlines and to contact a professional to have these trimmed.
“Under no circumstances should householders try to trim trees that are contacting our infrastructure or that are overhanging our poles and wires,” Mr Glawson said.
After a storm has rolled through an area, customers whose electricity supply has been affected should contact Country Energy to advise of any supply interruption or fallen powerlines.
“While we have sophisticated equipment that can tell us where a problem is, it is always helpful to have customers call in.”
“We will respond as quickly as we can, restoring power as fast as safety allows. We just ask that people be patient and keep post-storm safety in mind – don’t go near downed powerlines and be careful of areas where there is a lot of debris or fallen trees because they could conceal an energised powerline.”
For further information concerning storm safety contact 13 23 56, drop into your nearest Customer Service Centre or visit http://www.countryenergy.com.au
