‘Fix it right’ campaign

Press, 13 December 1986, Page 37

‘Fix it right’ campaign

PA Wellington The public needed more knowledge on repairing and using plugs and extension leads to reduce deaths from electric shock, said the Minister of Energy, Mr Tizard. Fifteen people were electrocuted in the year to March, and 10 of those were the result of accidents with plugs and extension cords, he said. It was time people learned to “fix it right.” The Ministry of Energy is conducting a two-month television campaign aimed at improving wiring safety. It has been directed at householders,

and will be backed-up with instruction leaflets soon to be sent out by electrical supply authorities.

"Although New Zealanders are permitted to repair their own electrical fuses and replace plugs on flexible cords they should be aware that electricity is inherently dangerous,” Mr Tizard said.

“The tragedy is that badly connected plugs have been killers and the safety campaign this year highlights the problem,” he said.

During the summer the campaign will also concentrate on caravan

safety and the electrical dangers of tall yacht masts hitting overhead lines.