NSW students learn about electricity safety

2 September 2019

Primary school students across NSW will receive some important lessons this week on how to stay safe around electricity as part of a state-wide awareness program.

Electricity Safety Week is an annual classroom initiative developed by Ausgrid which is now run in schools across the State.

More than 2,200 primary schools have signed up for this year’s event which will run from 2-6 September.

Ausgrid Chief Operating Officer Trevor Armstrong said it is a vital introduction to electrical safety.

“Safety is our number one priority and Electricity Safety Week is all about preventing electrical accidents and keeping our children and community safe.

“This program is aligned with school curriculums and teaches students about dangerous hazards such as fallen powerlines and overloaded power points.

The program includes prizes for students, activity books and interactive lessons to teach students how to stay safe both at home and in the outdoors.

“One of the key lessons for people of all ages is that electricity can jump, so it’s vital to stay well clear of any fallen powerlines and report them immediately.

“If you do spot a fallen powerline always assume it’s live, never approach and stay at least 8 metres or 2 car lengths away.

As part of the program Ausgrid is running a poster and video competition with students invited to submit a 30 second video highlighting electrical safety messages.

The winners will receive $1,000 for their school Parents and Citizens Association.