Equatorial advises on precautions in cases of cable breakage

The electrical network is exposed to the environment and subject to events that can cause damage to its structure and, in some cases, result in cables breaking. Strong winds, intense rain, atmospheric discharges, falling branches and trees are some examples of situations that can compromise the electrical grid. Faced with these risks, Equatorial Maranhão advises the population on the necessary precautions to avoid accidents. In addition to weather conditions, external interference can also damage the structure of the electrical network, such as collisions with poles, thrown objects or even theft. Regardless of the cause, broken cables that fall to the ground can remain energized and must be treated as a hazardous situation. Pay extra attention in traffic The movement of vehicles higher than that permitted for certain roads can also cause contact with the electrical network and cause cables to break. To avoid this type of occurrence, drivers must respect the regulated height of the roads and pay extra attention when traveling in areas with wires. In the event of an accident involving vehicles and electrical poles, the advice is not to leave the vehicle if there is a risk of contact with energized wiring. The location must be isolated and Equatorial Maranhão contacted to carry out the shutdown and necessary safety measures. For the Occupational Safety engineer at Equatorial Maranhão, Maxinard Costa, the main guideline when faced with a broken cable is to keep your distance and immediately report the incident. "There is an invisible danger in these cases, as it is not possible to know how far the energy can spread, especially in wet or flooded areas. The advice is to stay away from the location and immediately contact Equatorial via Central 116 or via WhatsApp from the Virtual Assistant Clara, at number (98) 2055-0116, reporting the occurrence of a risk to life, so that our teams can act on the spot", he warned. Broken cables can remain energized even after falling, representing an invisible risk Disclosure/Equatorial What to do when you find a broken cable • Keep your distance: do not approach broken or fallen wires, as even after breaking or falling, the wiring can remain energized; • Do not touch the wiring: never try to pull, move away or remove objects that are on the wires; • Keep people and animals away: if possible, isolate the area to prevent other people or animals from approaching the risk area; • Call Equatorial Maranhão: report the incident via Central 116 or via WhatsApp from Virtual Assistant Clara, at (98) 2055-0116, especially in situations involving a risk to life. Equatorial Maranhão reinforces that the identification of a broken wire must be treated as a risk situation, regardless of whether there are apparent signs of electricity. The distance and activation of the Distributor are the safest measures until the teams responsible for the service arrive. VC+ Seguro Movement Equatorial Maranhão reinforces that these guidelines are part of the “VC+ Seguro” Movement, an initiative that acts in a preventive manner, guiding its customers and reinforcing the importance of safety with electrical energy to avoid accidents. The campaign aims to expand access to information and raise awareness among the population about the risks and dangers related to the use of electrical energy, reaffirming the Distributor's commitment to safety, accident prevention and the well-being of the community. Red August During the month of August, the movement's actions are reinforced with the Red August campaign, an initiative promoted by the Brazilian Association of Electricity Distributors (Abradee), aimed at raising awareness among the population about the risks of accidents involving the electrical grid.