Essential electrical safety tips for Karachi

As the monsoon season approaches Karachi, it is crucial to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to electrical hazards. With extreme rainfall and urban challenges, taking precautions becomes even more important. Here are some essential electrical safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during the monsoon season.

Check Your Electric Switches and Internal Wiring: Regularly inspect switches and wiring inside your house. Ensure that switches not in regular use and susceptible to contact with water are leak-free and safe from electric shocks. Avoid touching switches with wet hands, particularly in bathrooms. Consider seeking assistance from a trained electrician to fix any issues and replace worn-out circuit breakers or distribution boards.
Address Damaged Ceilings: In older constructions, rainwater can seep through roofs and walls, potentially interfering with electrical wiring. If you notice water passing through electrical switchboards or openings, take immediate action. Get waterproofing done promptly and consider adding shades on rooftops. It is also advisable to wear rubber slippers around these areas at home.
Be Cautious with Water Motors and Appliances: Do not operate appliances, especially water motors or electric switches, with wet hands or feet. Avoid using appliances exposed to rain or water in general. Place water motors at a height on concrete platforms to protect them from groundwater and prevent electricity conduction. Hire skilled electricians to properly conceal and insulate wiring for added safety.
Address Encroachments and Loose Hanging Wires: The unplanned growth and encroachments in Karachi have led to hazardous situations, including loose hanging wires and cables. Report any encroachments and request immediate action from local government authorities to remove these hazards. Loose cables may carry current, even if there is no power in the area.
Report Suspicious Activity: Power theft through illegal hook connections is a major challenge in Karachi. If you observe instances of power theft on electricity poles and wires or around substations, report them to your utility service. Write to your elected representatives to take action against power theft, ensuring the safety of communities.
Be Prepared for Urban Flooding: Monsoon rains often result in urban flooding and waterlogging. Take precautionary measures to safeguard your home. If you notice sparking on power lines or encounter broken wires, report the hazard to the utility service immediately. Be aware that the utility may shut down power supply to areas at risk.
Emergency First Aid: Knowing how to administer first aid is crucial for everyone. Learn how to handle different situations, including electric shocks. Prioritize your own safety and locate the power source to disconnect it if possible. Use non-conductive objects to move the person away from the source. Call for medical assistance, such as the Sindh Rescue and Medical Services, and perform CPR if necessary.