Prioritise electrical safety during floods, says TNB

KUALA LUMPUR: Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) advises the public to always give priority and emphasis on the prudent use of electrical equipment during the Northeast Monsoon season which is expected to begin on Saturday (Nov 11) and last until March next year.

Its Group Corporate Communications acting head Wan Seri Rahayu Wan Mohamad Said reminded the public to turn off the main switch in their premises if flood waters begin to rise and they are instructed to move to a relief centre.

“With heavy continuous rain expected in several states, there is a high possibility of floods occurring in low-lying areas. For residents in flood-hit areas, it is important to adhere to instructions given by the authorities if asked to evacuate.

“Residents are also encouraged to contact the TNB CareLine line at 15454 or through the Facebook TNB Careline if there is a disconnected or collapsed installation for immediate action. For public safety, there will be monitoring of the condition of each installation from time to time,” she said in a statement.

She said TNB will also disconnect the electricity supply to the affected areas temporarily for the safety of the public and it will only be restored once flood waters recede and the situation is safe again.

In the same statement, Wan Seri Rahayu also listed several measures that can be taken during floods, as well as during pre-and post-flood situations.

According to her, among the measures during pre-floods include moving electrical equipment to a higher level, and during floods, people need to ensure that the main switch is closed to avoid an electric shock, and people should not enter flooded areas.

“Additionally, avoid touching electrical equipment or cables submerged in flood waters even if they are coated with insulation; avoid approaching or touching iron poles or TNB installations that are submerged in water to avoid the risk of electric shock; and make sure all socket switches are switched off,” she said.

She also asked the public to charge handphone power banks in advance so that they can use their mobile phones to facilitate communication and to turn off the system if premises are installed with a solar PV (photovoltaic) system before leaving the house.

As for electrical safety guidance after a flood, she said the public should turn off the main electrical switch before cleaning electrical equipment and have an electrical contractor registered with the Energy Commission (ST) to check submerged electrical equipment, in addition to monitoring children so that they do not approach damaged electrical lines.

Wan Seri Rahayu added that TNB is prepared to face the possibility of flood disasters to ensure orderly and effective electricity supply management. – BK