ESB Networks have advised customers that it is taking measures for full levels of preparedness ahead of Storm Emma.
The snow and freezing temperatures forecast for this week may damage the electricity network and ESB Networks has a full emergency response in place to address any power outages.
ESB Networks will have advised customers about planned outages taking place this week in order to carry out essential maintenance and repairs. All planned outages have been cancelled for this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and will be rescheduled at a later date.
Extreme weather, heavy snowfalls and freezing temperatures can affect underground and overhead electricity cables and wires.
ESB Networks have issued a warning for low hanging or fallen wires:
Snow and ice can damage the electricity network by causing electricity wires to hang low or even fall. These wires will still be live and are extremely dangerous. Never ever approach or touch electricity network wires under any circumstances.
Snow may also cause trees and branches to fall across or lean onto electricity lines. Please do not approach or touch any fallen wires or the tree or branch that they are touching. Please report these dangerous situations immediately by calling 1850 372 999.
ESB networks are preparing to dispatch crews to affected areas in the event of a power outage, but have warned that heavy snows may impede access to damaged infrastructure, so outages may take longer than usual to repair.
“ESB Networks would like to ask our customers to be prepared to be without electricity in case their area is hit:
• Have plenty of food and water available
• Have torches with spare batteries available
• Make sure your phone is charged and, if possible, have a phone charger at hand for your car
• Please check that elderly or vulnerable relatives and neighbours are prepared to be without electricity
• If you have electric gates, please check you know how to work them manually
Customers without power can check for updates on when their fault is expected to be repaired at www.esbpowercheck.ie or on the PowerCheck App for iPhone and Android devices.”
Tags:
