Tampering with Power Boxes Poses Fatal Risk

Tampering with Power Boxes Poses Fatal Risk

Monday 9 September 2013 – Electricity distributor Unison Networks is highly concerned following a series of recent occurrences of power boxes being tampered with in Hastings.

“We have discovered a number of incidents whereby a person has removed the screws from a power box. In most cases they have not managed to remove the cover, but regardless of that fact, interfering with electricity assets like power boxes poses a significant danger. There is a very real risk of serious burns, electric shock, or even death,” said Unison Group Chief Executive Officer, Ken Sutherland.

“Public safety is extremely important to Unison. Every year we run public safety campaigns, and visit schools to educate children about the dangers of playing on or around power boxes,” said Mr Sutherland.

“Our message to the public is that if you see an open or damaged power box, or someone interfering with power boxes, call Unison and the Police immediately. Keep away from the area, and keep others away, until someone from Unison arrives to close or repair the power box.”

Unison voiced concerns earlier this year about the rising trend of tampering with power boxes, following an incident outside Camberley School in April. Vandals escaped what could have been fatal consequences when they removed bolts from the door of a power box outside the Hastings school, leaving the cabinet open with wires and fuses exposed. Unison was quickly on the scene to secure the cabinet door before any one was hurt.

Further safety information can be found at www.unison.co.nz, or call 0800 2 UNISON to report any safety concerns.

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