COIMBATORE: With the northeast monsoon expected to bring heavy rain, flooding and cyclonic conditions, Tamil Nadu Power Distribution Corporation Limited (TNPDCL), Coimbatore region, has issued a safety advisory for the public.It has urged people to install 30-milliampere residual current devices (RCDs) in household electrical systems to prevent electric shocks. They have been warned against approaching fallen poles, snapped conductors, stay wires, exposed cables or damaged electrical installations.People have been advised to switch off the mains immediately if water enters their premises or if sparks, smoke or leakage are noticed near electrical equipment. Electrical appliances and switches should not be operated with wet hands or while standing on wet surfaces.In case of an electric shock, the victim should not be touched directly. The power supply must first be disconnected, or a dry wooden object should be used to separate the person from the electrical source.The public has also been cautioned against connecting generators directly to house wiring, allowing children near electrical installations, or fixing banners and hoardings to electric poles.Electrical hazards can be reported to the 24-hour helpline at 94987 94987.TNPDCL has undertaken precautionary measures to ensure uninterrupted power supply and prevent electrical accidents during the monsoon.Adequate stocks of electric poles, transformers, conductors, emergency materials and restoration equipment have been kept at strategic locations for immediate deployment during emergencies. Special response teams have been formed at the section, sub-division and division levels to restore power quickly in the event of monsoon-related disruptions. Priority will be given to essential services, including hospitals, drinking-water supply schemes, public health institutions and emergency facilities.
