Essential Energy’s regional general manager South Eastern, Phillip Green, said unrestrained and unfriendly dogs were just one of the hazards of the job for Essential Energy’s 125 meter readers that could easily be avoided.

“Residents may have received a new dog for Christmas, or moved house with the family pets which means there is now a new dog at the premises,” Phillip said.

“If this is the case, please contact Essential Energy on 13 23 91 to let us know so we can work with you to safely read your meter.

“Our meter readers undergo extensive safety training relating to dog behaviour, but unless they know a dog is present they can be caught off guard if one suddenly appears from nowhere.”

Essential Energy recommends securing dogs away from the meter box and locating gates or fences behind the meter box to provide clear access, where possible. Keeping meter boxes clear of trees, shrubs, rubbish and insects also helps reduce the risk of injury for meter readers from thorns, vegetation, wasps and bees.

“Not only does Essential Energy need access to these important pieces of the electricity network, but emergency service personnel may need to access meter boxes in the event of a major emergency, such as a bushfire, severe storm or electric shock,” Phillip said.