Easter is just around the corner and Northern Ireland Electricity is reminding children across the county to play safe and stay safe stay during the holidays.

NIE Safety Officer, Julie McDowell, says the safety message NIE teaches applies to all ages.

"We have been talking to primary schools about the dangers they face when playing near powerlines and electricity substations," she said.

"When we visit schools, pupils sometimes boast that they have been inside substations or they have thrown things at electricity lines as a dare. This is a very dangerous practice – a substation is a playground that can kill and we ask all young people to stay safe this Easter by staying away from electricity equipment.

"Pupils who have been through the Kidzsafe programme understand how important it is to act responsibly around electricity equipment. If you are playing football, flying kites, fishing or putting up tents, always look up and make sure you stay well away from overhead electricity lines and substations."

Julie said it was just not young people who must be careful.

"Anyone carrying out DIY work, tree trimming or general maintenance around the home during the holidays should plan their work carefully and be aware of any electricity lines or underground cables around the work site. Electricity must be treated with respect so we would ask everyone to take the necessary safety precautions and keep safe this Easter."

Northern Ireland Electricity has set up a Kidzsafe website at www.niesafety.co.uk, especially designed for primary school children, with fun activities games to teach them about the journey of electricity and how they can keep themselves and their friends safe. There are also Parent-Teacher factsheets, as well as an educational resource for Key Stage Three pupils.

For DIY enthusiasts out the website for lots of helpful hints and safety advice - everything you need to stay safe this Easter.