Northern Powergrid is reminding people of the dangers of live electricity to encourage “no unsafe tricks, only treats”, this spooky season.
A spokesperson said: “With clocks turning back this weekend marking the end of British Summer Time, dark evenings, fireworks and Bonfire Night hot on the heels of scary season, children and teens will be spending more time outdoors in their local communities, potentially at an increased risk of coming into contact with electrical hazards.”
The electricity distribution network operator – which powers everyday life for eight million people across the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire – is encouraging parents and carers to make safety part of the seasonal spooktacular fun and chat with youngsters about staying safe around power lines, substations, and other electrical equipment.
The company’s “Look Up It’s Live!” campaign reminds everyone to look up and check where overhead power lines and cables are located when playing outside, knocking door-to-door for Halloween treats, and before building a bonfire or setting off fireworks. Their free safety advice and educational resources help parents and guardians talk with children about the dangers of interfering accidentally, or otherwise, with power cables, lines or poles and to keep away from electricity substations.
Gareth Pearson, Northern Powergrid’s Director of Health, Safety and Training said: “We know spooky season is a fun and exciting time for children and teens as they enjoy getting dressed up in Halloween costumes, playing outside with friends and watching fireworks, however, we’d like to remind about the hazards associated with live electricity.”
He added: “Our key message is to ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ and check where overhead power lines are located before setting off fireworks or building a bonfire. If anyone spots anything unsafe relating to the electricity network such as damaged overhead power lines, wooden poles, or issues at a substation, call 105 immediately and we’ll send help.
“Play and stay safe, keep well away from the electricity network, and enjoy the spooky season without any unsafe tricks – only treats!”
