For more media materials please visit: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8101651-electrical-safety-authority-respectthepower
MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 15, 2017 /CNW/ - Across the province, whether in the yard or on a construction site, thousands of Ontarians are working in close quarters with a silent and potentially deadly hazard: powerlines. From May 15 to 21, the Electrical Safety Authority's (ESA's) Powerline Safety Week reminds people across the province to think twice about these unassuming overhead threats all year round, at home and at work.
"Many people underestimate the massive amount of power running through the wires that power our homes and communities," says Scott Saint, Chief Public Safety Officer, Electrical Safety Authority. "Even getting too close to a powerline can kill you or cause serious injury. Electricity rarely gives second chances."
The Ontario Electrical Safety Report notes that more than 1,300 overhead powerline contacts were reported in Ontario between 2006 and 2015. As a result of those incidents, 23 people lost their lives and others were injured. Ontario's most recent powerline-related fatality occurred earlier this month; a man died in Peterborough after contacting an overhead powerline while tree trimming. The tragic incident acts as a stark reminder of the lethal power of powerlines.
"Powerline Safety Week is an opportunity to remind Ontarians to never take safety for granted and to always be aware of overhead and underground wires," adds Saint. "Every powerline contact is preventable and powerline safety is ultimately a shared responsibility. Workers and homeowners alike must respect the power and be safe around powerlines."
ESA's 2017 Powerline Safety Week campaign includes compelling digital and television advertising targeting both construction workers and homeowners; life-saving tips at esasafe.com/powerlinesafety; social media content aimed at educating Ontarians on the risks associated with powerlines; and partnerships with local electric utilities to help spread the powerline safety message.
5 Tips to #RespectThePower at Home:
5 Tips to #RespectThePower at Work:
For Powerline Safety Week photos and videos, please visit: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/8101651-electrical-safety-authority-respectthepower/
About the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)
The Electrical Safety Authority's (ESA) role is to enhance public electrical safety in Ontario. As an administrative authority acting on behalf of the Government of Ontario, ESA is responsible for administering specific regulations related to the Ontario Electrical Safety Code, the licensing of Electrical Contractors and Master Electricians, electricity distribution system safety, and electrical product safety. ESA works extensively with stakeholders throughout the province on education, training and promotion to foster electrical safety.
More information on the Electrical Safety Authority can be found at www.esasafe.com, through Twitter @homeandsafety and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ElectricalSafetyAuthority.
SOURCE Electrical Safety Authority
Electrical Safety Authority Media Relations, 905-712-7819 or [email protected]
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