Untangling Power Line Myths

Untangling Power Line Myths

Lines can energize the air around them. If too close, electricity can jump to you, leading to injury or death.

1 – I’m safe as long as I don’t touch power lines.
There’s no difference in voltage in the distance between a bird’s feet, so no circuit is created. Electric shock occurs if a person touches a line while touching the ground.

2 – If birds can sit on power lines, it’s safe for humans to touch them, too.

3 – Wooden ladders are safe to use around power lines.
Wood is not a sufficient insulator. Only use nonconductive ladders around power lines and maintain a safe distance.

4 – It’s safe to trim trees near the power lines.
Branches could strike power lines and you at the same time, causing physical harm or death. This should be left to the professionals.

5 – Power lines are insulated, so they’re safe to touch.
Touching a power line, even if it appears insulated, can deliver an electric shock.

Power lines deliver electricity to homes and businesses and are essential to our modern way of life. We see them everywhere, so we sometimes forget they can be potentially dangerous.

Myths abound when it comes to power line safety. To help protect our communities, it’s crucial to end power line misconceptions.