Meon Valley MP Flick Drummond is passing on a warning to check for underground cables when undertaking gardening or DIY following a visit to an SSE facility in Bishop’s Waltham.
On average, 70 people a year are seriously injured as a result of contact with underground electricity cables.
SSE said it was important to be aware of how electricity is supplied to a property when carrying out any excavations or work that involves breaking ground.
On the visit, the MP was also told how the company is looking to improve resilience and upgrade the electricity distribution network in the area during the next few years.
SEE ALSO: New homes in village get green light despite more than 100 objections
There was also a call for vulnerable or disabled householders to sign up to the Priority Services Register (PSR) so SSE is aware of where they are if there are power outages.
Mrs Drummond said: “I was very pleased to be updated by SSE on its current plans to improve the network and on some of the issues around keeping people safe whether they are vulnerable households or undertaking DIY.
“It goes without saying electricity is incredibly dangerous and everyone needs to take precautions. Always assume underground cables are live. And if they are damaged, get in touch with your electricity supplier.”
More information about avoiding underground power lines is available here.
The PSR website is here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here