Horizon Power is urging residents in regional and remote Western Australia to take care and stay safe following a high level of incidents involving damage to mini-pillars (small green domes) which form part of the underground power network.
Since January this year, almost 70 incidents involving damage to the domes have been recorded, with the highest numbers in Port Hedland, 22, Karratha, 15, and Broome, 7.
Since 2015, there have been close to 300 incidents across Horizon Power’s service area.
Horizon Power Manager of Engineering and Project Services Marc Beckx said the majority of incidents were a result of people driving into or over the domes, or damaging them using heavy duty lawn mowing equipment.
“Following the transition to underground power in many regional centres, there are a large number of these domes across the State and people need to be very mindful when driving or working near them,” Mr Beckx said.
“A damaged dome can leave dangerous wiring and cables exposed, posing a real risk to the public and in particular young children who may play with the equipment and be unaware of the dangers involved.
“Electricity is extremely dangerous and can cause electric shock or electrocution if live wires are exposed.
“The safety of the community is our number one priority and people should make sure they exercise caution around electrical assets; check where pillars are on a property before driving in or lawn mowing and ensure children don’t play on or around any electrical equipment.”
If you see any damage to electrical infrastructure or want to report a fault, please call Horizon Power on 13 23 51.
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