PUTRAJAYA, Oct 16 — The public is reminded to remain vigilant and prioritise electrical and gas safety during the flood season, as disasters pose various risks, including fallen electrical poles, broken power lines, and damage to electrical and gas equipment.
The Energy Commission (ST) in a statement today said people should exercise caution before, during, and after floods.
ST emphasised that if evacuation is required, residents should ensure electrical equipment is stored in elevated places and turn off main switches on their electrical boards.
The main switches for separately connected electrical installations, such as solar PV systems or electric fences, should also be turned off, as well as gas cylinders and gas pipe valves.
During a flood, the public is advised to avoid areas with electrical installations or submerged electrical equipment, such as substations and switch rooms, and refrain from touching poles or structures that can conduct electricity.
People have been urged not to move fallen electrical poles or severed wires and to report them immediately to utility providers.
According to ST, after floods subsides, the main switch on the electrical distribution board and the gas valve should remain in the off position before any cleaning work begins.
Before turning the main switch back on, they must ensure electrical equipment is in good and dry condition, and always be cautious when cleaning up near power lines, electrical installations, and piped gas systems.
The ST reminded the public to avoid using electrical and gas equipment if there are safety concerns and to contact registered electrical or gas contractors with ST if there are doubts about the safety of electrical or piped gas systems.
It also advised the public to keep emergency contact numbers handy, such as those of nearby police stations, fire departments, hospitals, and utility companies.
— Bernama
