Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) Networks has issued a warning to farmers and landowners following a number of incidents where lives have been put at risk when cutting down trees and hedges.

The firm confirmed some of its electricity networks were seriously damaged when vegetation was being cut back.

Kevin McDowell, Head of Health, Safety and Environment at NIE Networks, said: "We regularly highlight the risks involved when working near our overhead power lines. Contact with live electricity equipment could result in injury, or even death. Everyone considering this type of work should contact NIE Networks before starting. Our tree cutting services are provided at no cost, so please don't endanger yourself or others by attempting to prune or remove trees near overhead power lines.

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"Damage to the electricity network may also cause local communities to lose their electricity supplies, inconveniencing homes and businesses in the area.

"We know this is a busy time of the year for farmers and agricultural contractors as they tidy up trees and hedgerows, but planning your work and identifying the risks before starting work could mean the difference between life and death. Awareness of the correct safety procedures will help prevent every incident of damage."

(CD/MH)