09 March 2010 11:38 Central Networks issues safety warning after substation arson attack in Nottinghamshire

Central Networks, the electricity distribution company for central England, has today (TUES) issued a safety warning after an arson attack on one of its Nottinghamshire substations.

Firefighters were called to the substation in Hempshill Lane, Bulwell, after a fire broke out Sunday afternoon. It is believed the fire was deliberately started and police are investigating the incident.

Phil Wilson, Customer Operations Manager for Central Networks, said: “Setting fire to a substation is an extremely dangerous act that not only cut the power to thousands of customers but could also get you killed.

“We’ve had a number of attacks on our electricity network recently and it’s only a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured or ends up dead.

“We don’t know who did this yet, but it’s a timely reminder to parents to make sure their children are aware of the consequences of trying to access electricity substations. Setting fire to a substation is no laughing matter, which is why we secure our equipment with fences and locks.”

The fire caused power disruptions to 1,909 customers at 3.16pm. Central Networks engineers worked quickly to restore power to most customers within 35 minutes. Power was restored to the remaining 21 customers by 10.30pm following emergency repairs.

Anyone who has information about vandalism to or theft of Central Networks property is encouraged to call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Ends

Notes to editors:

·         Central Networks, provides a reliable supply to 9.5 million people in central England through 133,000km of underground and overhead cables – enough to go round the Earth more than three times – and via almost 94,000 substations.

·         Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District in the north to parts of Bristol in the south, and from the Welsh Borders to the Lincolnshire Coast.

For further information contact:

Alisha Allen on 02476 192 063