Electrons, currents and volts will be the buzz words in classrooms this week as students in 877 regional and rural NSW schools learn about electricity as part of Essential Energy’s 2018 Electricity Safety Week program. Acting Regional Manager North Coast, Ross Berry said the annual program would teach students smart tips about how to stay safe around electricity, both in the home and outdoors. “With 96 per cent of the schools in Essential Energy’s vast footprint registered to participate, this is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness about potential electrical hazards in our local communities,” Mr Berry said. “Students learn to keep away from overhead powerlines, how to use home electrical appliances safely, and what to do in an electrical emergency.” Essential Energy supplies registered schools with a free resource kit featuring interactive activities, videos and prizes. “The program teaches students to stay at least eight metres away from fallen powerlines and not to touch any objects in contact with them,” Mr Berry said. For the third year running, students are being encouraged to create safety-inspired artworks and potentially win donations for their P&C Association as part of Essential Energy’s ‘Be a Safety Star’ poster competition. The poster competition includes three categories – Kindergarten-Year 2, Years 3-4 and Years 5-6. Each category winner receives a $1,000 donation for their P&C Association to spend on school safety improvements. For further details, visit essentialenergy.com.au/postercomp. “Poster entries close on Friday September 28 and the lucky winner could come from any part of the state so don’t miss out on your school’s chance to win,” Mr Berry added. For further information about Essential Energy’s electricity safety teaching resources, visit: www.essentialenergy.com.au/education.