Over the last five years, there were 63 presentations to Princess Margaret Hospital Emergency Department for electrical related injuries. That is 63 too many.
Electricity is an essential part of our lives but often it is only when the power goes out that we realise how important it is. It can also be a dangerous product, so Horizon Power has partnered with Kidsafe WA to further promote electrical safety.
Kidsafe WA – an independent not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting safety and preventing childhood injuries and accidents in Western Australia – and Horizon Power – which produces, procures, distributes and sells electricity to regional and remote Western Australia – have teamed up to boost the promotion of electrical safety messages to regional communities in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Mid-West and Goldfields.
“It is of great concern that children continue to get injured or even die as the result of preventable injuries and accidents,” said Kidsafe WA Chief Executive Officer, Scott Phillips. “Many injuries can be prevented by following simple safety advice”.
Horizon Power Brand and Communications Manager Andrew Riches said one issue of serious concern to Horizon Power was vandalism to electrical equipment by children, such as throwing shoes over powerlines. It not only caused power outages but could result in injury or even death.
“We are proud to support Kidsafe WA in its work to prevent injuries to children caused by electricity,” Mr Riches said.
To prevent electrical injuries follow these key tips:
- Water and electricity do not mix!
- Install a residual current device
- Always use a licenced electrical contractor when renovating or doing home maintenance work
- Avoid using damaged or worn cords
- Trim trees and branches when they are too close to powerlines
For more information on how to keep your children safe from electricity visit:
horizonpower.com.au/our-commitments/overview/safety/ OR www.kidsafewa.com.au/factsheets.htm to see Kidsafe WA’s Electrical Safety Fact Sheet
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Media Contacts:
Wendy Pryer
Communications Consultant
0409 796 999
Scott Phillips
Chief Executive Officer, Kidsafe WA
0400 828 011