Community Safety

A father and daughter with lights in the background

Community Safety

Keeping our community safe around electricity

As the custodian of one of Australia’s largest electricity distribution networks, we are committed to raising awareness and understanding of the risks associated with living and working near the electricity network.

As a key part of the communities in which we operate, we seek to ensure the safety of all community members in any way we can.

We assist community groups, schools and individuals 'at risk' by providing:

Electrical safety advice.
Electrical awareness educational material – including brochures, fact sheets, warning stickers and interactive displays.
Safety awareness and educational presentations to those working in agriculture, aviation, building and construction, emergency services and councils, transport and high loads, as well as the general public of all ages.

Understand the risks of electricity

It’s important that everyone in our community keeps safety top of mind to:

Understand the risks of living and working near the electricity network and
Know what to do if you or someone else comes into contact with the electricity network.

Stay away from damaged powerlines

Always stay at least 8 metres away from a powerline on the ground, objects in contact with wires, or a low hanging powerline.
Stay at least 150 metres away from fallen or damaged powerlines, and any other part of the electricity network, if submerged in water.
Do not touch the line or object in contact with it. Always assume it is live and report it to Essential Energy on 132080 immediately.
Stay away from anything that may be in contact with the line, such as fences or trees, as they are conductors of electricity. Be aware that electricity can arc to surrounding objects and possibly you if you are too close. You can be seriously injured without actually touching the powerline.
Be aware that electricity infrastructure may be damaged as a result of strong winds and lightning during storms and motor vehicle accidents.
Potential indicators of damage include flickering or no power supply, fallen trees, smoke or steam, burnt areas on the ground, visual damage to electrical equipment including poles, cross arms, insulators and stay wires.
On rural properties, always be aware of potential electrical hazards when checking stock.
If you see damaged infrastructure or low hanging powerlines, report it immediately on 132080 or use our online form.