Stay safe with gas or electricity

The only time most of us think about energy safety is when something goes wrong. But being alert to potential dangers can save lives and property, says Energy Safe Victoria CEO Leanne Hughson.

“We don’t get in our car and drive erratically, because we know it’s dangerous,” she said.

“We don’t go to work and do stupid things because we know everyone deserves to get home from work safely.

“The same is true every time we come into contact with gas or electricity. We need to be aware of the real, inherent dangers of energy, and act appropriately.”

Leanne said there were far too many ways people could behave unsafely with energy — and the potential outcomes could be disastrous — but we can all choose to act safely.

“Everyone knows about staying clear of potentially deadly powerlines,” she said.

“We must constantly be aware of them when operating tall machinery such as augurs or cranes, or raising the trays on tipper trucks, or moving hay around on farms — ‘Look Up And Live’.

“And only use qualified arborists to keep trees clear of powerlines on properties.”

There are many things that can be done to be safer around electricity and gas:

• Only ever use a licensed electrician for any electrical job at home or at work.

• Regularly service solar panels or other renewable energy installations.

• Have gas heaters serviced every couple of years.

• Test the connections on barbecues for gas leaks with soapy water.

• Don’t excavate until you know what’s underground. Always contact Before You Dig Australia.

Leanne urged everyone to visit the Energy Safe Victoria website at: esv.vic.gov.au

“Our website is packed with helpful information including our latest energy safety campaigns, and useful resources,” she said.

“And you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, too.

“Most of all we want to say to people ‘Stop, and think, before you do anything’.

“Don’t cut corners and end up a statistic. Help us to keep you, your family and everyone around you safe, every day.”

ESV is Victoria’s safety regulator for electricity, gas and pipelines. It ensures that Victorian gas and electricity industries are safe and meet community expectations and is also responsible for licensing and registering electricians, and educating the community about energy safety.

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