As South Australians enjoy regional travel this New Year long weekend, SA Power Networks is reminding people of the potential risk of electric shock or even electrocution if they get too close to powerlines standing in floodwater.

Head of Corporate Affairs Paul Roberts said there was now more than 400 kilometres of powerline and about 4,000 Stobie poles standing in floodwaters in the River Murray. He emphasized that many holiday-makers may not be familiar with the additional risks associated with flooding. 

“We are very conscious of the risk to public safety posed by electricity infrastructure standing in water. 

“We urge people who are enjoying the River Murray this New Year, to make sure they are safe.  

“There are many areas where powerline clearances are at their minimum and without public adherence to the safety restrictions announced by the State Government, these lines will have to be turned off,” he said. 

“To maintain electricity supply to the region the majority of powerlines must remain live. This is why we have limits to on-the-water movements and the exclusion zone,” Mr Roberts said.   

“The best way to keep safe is to stay out of the water entirely. If you must be on the water for reasons allowed under the current restrictions, make sure you observe the minimum 50 metre on-the-water exclusion zones around powerlines.”  

“People should always assume powerlines are live and potentially lethal. The risk is heightened with the presence of water. Avoiding flooded areas is your safest course of action.”