The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has cautioned electricity customers/consumers about activities capable of causing fire outbreak on power installations and properties belonging to members of the public this harmattan.

The Head of Communications, EEDC, Mr Emeka Ezeh, said in a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday in Enugu that customers should guard against unsafe acts within their neighbourhoods this harmattan.

Ezeh, however, recounted the losses the company and some members of the public had suffered over the years due to uncontrolled and unsafe activities carried out by some persons during the harmattan and dry season.

“Last year, we lost over five transformers (with the feeder pillars and other accessories) and spans of aluminum cables to bush burning; while properties, houses and farmlands belonging to some individuals were not left out,” Ezeh added.

According to him, harmattan is a period when bushes, trees, farmlands and other objects get dry and can easily catch fire at the slightest opportunity or exposure.

“Most of our transformers are located within residential areas and in some cases near farmlands and bushes, and are always at risk when engulfed by fire,” he noted.

Ezeh, therefore, warned those who engage in the use of fireworks popularly known as “knockout” during Yuletide to be cautious while doing this.

The EEDC spokesman called on parents to admonish their children against the act of throwing “knockouts” at random this harmattan season, so they do not incur avoidable expenses for them in the event of any mishap.

“Smokers, who usually drop remnants of their cigarettes where there are combustible materials or bushes, should desist from this harmful practice.

“Those who engage in bush burning for hunting or farming purposes; and those who burn refuse close to distribution substations are advised to apply caution to ensure such acts are controlled and do not get out of hand to cause any damage.

“EEDC is working assiduously to deliver improved and reliable services to its esteemed customers, and we call on them to reciprocate by engaging in the right activities that will help sustain these efforts,” Ezeh noted.