How to Avoid Electrocution Outdoors

Raw electricity is an awe inspiring force of nature. We tame it, harness it, and too often take it for granted. Electrical power is a factor of the number of electrons per second flowing down a line, which translates to Amperage, and the amount of potential energy these electrons have called Voltage. For an analogy think of a garden hose. The amount of water that flows is like amperage. The pressure is like voltage. The effect of the water is a product of both. Similar to adjusting the nozzle on a hose, Amperage and Voltage can be traded back and forth with transformers. Power is a product of both.

Instructions

• 1

  Because many generating plants are miles from the urban areas where most electricity is used, so power loss along the lines is a big concern. Maximizing transmission voltage is like increasing water pressure in a hose. It's the best way to push electricity long distance because it minimizes power loss. But the very high voltage and high current make these power towers some of the most dangerous parts of an electric grid. The higher the voltage the greater the potential for electrons to leap through insulators. Be sure to give all transmission and power lines a live berth. In fact, you don't even have to touch a power line. If you get close enough and the voltage is high enough, the electricity will arc. The best protection here is distance. For power lines of 50,000 volts or less, keep at least 10 feet away. If you're not sure, stay at least 18 feet away. At higher altitudes, where the air is thinner, you have to add more air space.

• 2

  Before beginning work, construction workers who have to labor close to electric lines should locate and identify what kind of power the wires carry. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power will move or de-engergize electric lines upon request. It's not enough to maintain personal air space. All equipment has got to keep the same safe distance whether it is scaffolding or hand carried construction material. It's not just good safety. It's the law.

• 3

  Do not fly kites or release Mylar balloon near power lines. Electricity can run down the lines, giving you a shock or worse. Mylar balloons pose a greater electric hazard than kites because the silvery coating acts as a conductor. If they get caught by power lines, they can arc; causing intense heat that can short a transformer, knock power lines down and damage home appliances

• 4

  If you see pad mounts in a neighborhood without utility poles it's a good bet that power is distributed underground. You can't see them, don't know that they are there, but power lines below can be just as dangerous as those above. Never assume you're safe. Diggers should always call ahead of time, to check for the presence of buried power cables. Be sure to specify the exact location of the intended excavation. You're not just forestalling a possible outage; you could be preventing electric shock and its severe consequences.