- The program is facilitated by Energex and Ergon Energy
- 1421 schools have signed up for the free program
- Energy Minister said its never too early to teach kids about electricity safety around the home
A free state-wide program educating kids about safety with electricity has been launched in Queensland.
The 2021 Safety Heroes program was launched at Springwood Central State School thanks to Energex and Ergon Energy, both publicly-owned electricity providers.
Queensland Energy Minister, Mick de Brennie, believes it is never too early to show children how to stay safe around electricity.
“We are surrounded by electricity at home and in the community, so it’s important that people of all ages understand the potential hazards and this school-based program is an amazing introduction for children, who talk about what they’ve learnt with their families and friends,” he said.
“The Safety Heroes program reinforces safety messages which teach Queenslanders what to do if they experience shocks or tingles at home, encounter fallen powerlines in their neighbourhood after a storm, or they’re involved in a vehicle accident that brings down live wires.”
Mick de Brenni, Minister for Energy
1421 schools have signed up for the program, which is delivered by industry veterans.
“There’s nothing like learning from someone who works around electricity every day and when a bucket truck rolls up at school it certainly commands students’ attention,” Mr de Brenni said.
6 – 10 September marks Electricity Safety Week when volunteers from Energx and Ergon will visit schools across the state. Remote students will have rhe opportunity to join a webinar.
Anthony Sullivan from Energex said the company has hosted numerous safety presentions using a miniature electricity network.
“We make it entertaining and interactive, so the electrical safety messages stay with them for years to come and hopefully these lessons will help to save lives,” Mr Sullivan said.
Earlier this winter, the Queensland state government reminded residents to review their home fire safety, especially given the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crew responded to about 40 residential house fire incidents per week during winter on average over the past five years.
“Don’t be complacent and think it won’t happen to you – the reality is most fires are caused by everyday items such as cooking equipment, faulty or poorly maintained appliances, and flammable materials placed too close to heat sources,” said Mark Ryan, Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, in June.
