Exercise caution near electrical installations, SESB tells public

KOTA KINABALU - The public is urged to be cautious when engaging in activities near electrical installations owned by Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB).

Its Senior General Manager (Asset Management) Ir. Mohd Yusmanizam Mohd Yusof said any activities carried out under or near high-voltage electrical supply poles and lines were dangerous.

"Substations and electrical installations are high-risk areas for electric shocks and any activity in these zones can be dangerous if safety precautions are ignored.

"Risky activities include fishing in ponds or lakes beneath power lines or flying kites or remote-controlled model airplanes near electrical supply lines.

"The risk of an electrical shock can also occur when engaging in activities under electrical lines, such as playing in playgrounds, participating in sports or even activities related to public markets," he said in a statement, today.

Yusmanizam added that such activities could trigger electrical shocks and arc flashes, which were hazardous.

These incidents, he said not only pose a significant danger but can also cause property damage and potentially result in fatalities.

He said SESB was actively enhancing its safety awareness programmes by disseminating safety measures information through social media, newspapers and radio to increase public awareness.

"SESB urges everyone to seek advice from its officers regarding the safe distances that need to be observed for any activities conducted near its electrical installations.

"SESB is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public by adhering to safety guidelines when near SESB-owned installations," he said.

Previously, it was reported that a durian seller died from an electric shock while attempting to retrieve an umbrella from his stall that had become entangled in electrical cables in an incident in Kampung Polumpung Malangkap, Kota Belud, on Tuesday.