Energex and Ergon Energy are calling on primary schools across Queensland to register now for the Safety Heroes program and help them break a participation record.
Energex and Ergon Acting Executive General Manager Customer Cloe Kernick said the long-running electrical safety education program would be back bigger and better than ever in 2021.
“The registration record is 1417 primary schools, which is an incredible 97%, but we want to hit the magic 100% this year,” Cloe said.
“Since 2015 we’ve been sharing lifesaving information on how to spot electrical hazards in the home and in the community and how to behave safely around electricity.
“Every year we hear examples of children passing these life lessons on to younger siblings, parents and grandparents, so the flow-on benefits are enormous.”
Queensland primary schools that sign up for the Safety Heroes Program will receive a free resource and prize pack to engage students in Electricity Safety Week from 6-10 September.
Schools have until 20 August to register at energex.com.au/safetyheroes
“The teaching resources are designed for a variety of ages and abilities, aligned with the P-6 Australian Curriculum for Health and Physical Education. They include a social stories booklet for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, simple circuit demonstration kit, stickers and posters.
“We’re surrounded by electrical equipment from the day we’re born, so we need to understand as early as possible how to recognise the dangers and stay safe.
“Whether we’re teaching children to look up and live when they’re climbing trees and flying drones or encouraging them to take care and stay line aware after a storm – there are some simple safety messages that will serve them well for life,” Cloe said.
After offering online Safety Heroes @ Home packages for parents and a series of virtual presentations for primary school students in 2020, Energex and Ergon will again be hosting a live webinar this year.
“We also have an army of volunteers from Energex and Ergon who are keen to share their knowledge and do in-school presentations.
“The more electrical safety heroes we have in our communities the better, so we’re encouraging all Queensland primary schools to get online and register now,” Cloe said.
