Working on the job or in the yard, you never know where you might find electricity.

Myths & Misconceptions

The shocking truth.

Think you know everything there is to know about power lines? You may be surprised to discover the “shocking truth” about these common myths and misconceptions:

“All power lines are insulated.”

Outside power lines are not insulated. A weather coating over the wire provides no insulation or protection from electric shock. No line is safe to touch or approach, ever.

“If I don’t touch a wire, I can’t be hurt by it.”

Touching a wire or even coming close to a wire can cause an electrical injury or death. Electricity can jump and often does when a potential conductor like a metal ladder comes close. Stay at least ten feet from power lines.

“A disconnected home circuit is safe to work on.”

Call a qualified electrician for all in-home electrical repairs. A circuit can store electricity and can release it suddenly even if the “plug” is no longer in the wall.

“A downed wire is only live when it makes sparks.”

Once a live wire falls to the ground it will often make no sparks or noise and can remain live. Don’t be fooled. Always consider a downed wire ”live” until someone from your utility company comes and shuts it off.

“If I use a wooden ladder, I won’t be in danger.”

Keep all ladders away from overhead lines. Trees get struck by lightning all the time. Wood is not an insulator, it’s a conductor of electricity. Anything that allows electricity to travel through it to the ground can cause electrocution. Be safe – keep all ladders away from power lines.

“I’ll be safe if I wear rubber gloves or rubber soled shoes.”

Household gloves and shoes are not made of 100% pure rubber, which is the only material that insulates against electricity. Anything made with additives and rubber-like materials can actually conduct electricity and will offer no protection.

“I can trim tree limbs safely if I stay away from overhead wires.”

Even by touching a power line, tree branches and leaves can become conductors of electricity. If you’re using a metal pruning tool, you will be in danger. Call your utility company before you start any tree limb removal.

“I’m only digging a few inches in to the ground.”

Depending on when the power lines were buried and whether the ground has shifted in that time, your shovel could easily come into contact with a power line you didn’t even know was there. To be safe, check before you dig.