The safety alert is being sent to homes surrounding major electricity substations, warning parents and their children about the dangers of entering substations or coming into contact with electricity.

Energy Australia Managing Director George Maltabarow said zone substations contained live electrical equipment that could cause serious harm.

“Our research shows that one in six people will believe it is safe to reach through perimeter fencing at electricity substations to retrieve a ball or Frisbee,” Mr Maltabarow said.

“Substations contain live electrical equipment that is switched on at all times. If you touch or go near this equipment you are risking your life.

“These zone substations are securely fenced and include tamper proof security doors. We have taken a number of steps to make sure the community is safe by keeping these substations locked.

“However, members of the community need to make sure they are staying well clear of substations and don’t attempt to climb fences or enter them.”

Energy Australia crews have spent more than $90 million over the past five years on improved security around zone substations including tamper proof security doors, intruder resistant fencing and special electronic locks.

Mr Maltabarow encouraged people who see someone climbing over fences around zone substations to call Energy Australia’s emergency number 13 13 88.

“Our crews have installed safety signs around electricity substations to inform the community about the dangers of electricity,” Mr Maltabarow said.

“If you lose something over a zone substation fence, call Energy Australia and our specially-trained staff will happily come and retrieve it for you.”

Zone Substations

* Energy Australia is responsible for operating and maintaining more than 170 major zone substations.

* Zone substations are an essential feature of the electricity network.

* Substations convert high voltage electricity to a lower voltage.

* EMF readings at electrical substations are typically well below the exposure level recommended by Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.

* Energy Australia Hotline: 13 13 88.