NIE Networks has launched a significant new public safety campaign, "Look Up to Live," following confirmation that more than 40 people were involved in incidents with overhead electricity lines in 2025. These accidents resulted in devastating consequences, including life-changing injuries and fatalities.

The campaign, which will appear across television, radio, and digital platforms, aims to combat complacency and urge the public to plan ahead when working near power equipment. The central message warns that even a split-second error in judgement can be fatal.

Damien Monaghan, Head of Health and Safety at NIE Networks, explained the urgency behind the initiative: "Farming, construction, maintenance and domestic outdoor activity can bring people, vehicles and equipment dangerously close to overhead power lines, so this campaign is a vital reminder that the risk is real. Too often, the danger is overlooked or underestimated during routine jobs, particularly when people are busy, distracted or under pressure. It takes only one mistake, one missed hazard or one assumption about clearance from our equipment for the consequences to be devastating." He added: "The impact of incidents is felt far beyond the person directly involved, and one incident is one to many. They can affect families, businesses and the wider community and leave a lasting trauma behind. To anyone working in the vicinity of our equipment, our message couldn't be simpler – Look Up to Live."

The campaign highlights several critical safety facts that are often misunderstood. Crucially, individuals do not need to make physical contact with a power line to be seriously injured or killed, as electricity can arc. Furthermore, equipment such as ladders, mobile platforms, and long-reach machinery can put workers in immediate danger.

Suzanne Huntley, Safety Manager at NIE Networks, noted that while power lines are a common part of the landscape, their danger is frequently underestimated. She stated: "As the owner and operator of Northern Ireland's electricity network, safety sits at the heart of everything we do, from protecting the public to maintaining our equipment and delivering a reliable service. But we continue to see far too many incidents involving overhead electricity lines. Many people do not realise just how dangerous they can be if you get too close."

NIE Networks is advising anyone working near the network to follow strict safety protocols. This includes checking for overhead lines before starting any task, never approaching fallen wires or damaged equipment, and stopping work immediately if there is any doubt about safety.

The NIE Networks contact centre remains available 24 hours a day at 03457 643 643 for those seeking advice or reporting hazards. Additional guidance is also available via the HSENI.