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Gaeilge

Electricity infrastructure is all around you

If you are planning an outdoor leisure activity take note of any overhead power lines, sub-stations, mini-pillars or other electrical equipment in the area. Remember that you do not always have to touch the equipment to be injured, in certain conditions electricity can travel through the air.

Marina with boats

Boating tips

 

In some circumstances, electricity can jump from the power line to the boat mast – it does not need to touch the mast.

Before rigging or moving a boat with a tall mast you should always:

  • Check if there are overhead power lines nearby
  • Plan your chosen route carefully
  • Avoid travelling underneath overhead wires when moving boats
Kites in the sky

Kiting tips

  • Remember that electricity can travel through a kite string
  • Never fly kites near overhead lines
  • If your kite gets caught in an overhead power line, don't attempt to get it down yourself, call our emergency number to report it:
An individual hang gliding above a forest

Aviation tips

 

  • Plan your route and ensure you have maps showing the location of overhead lines
  • Be extra vigilant when flying low as overhead lines can be difficult to see from the air
  • Get to know a new landing location and be aware of overhead lines
  • In an emergency landing watch out for pylons, poles and overhead line
Fisherman

Fishing tips

 

Many fishing rods are made of conductive material, such as carbon fibre or metal, and electricity can flow through a wet fishing line.

  • Always look up and never fish underneath overhead power lines
  • Fish at least 30 metres (100ft) away from all overhead lines - measure this along the ground
Drone

Drone tips

  • Always keep your drone within your line of sight - not through a video screen
  • Never operate drones near overhead lines
  • If your drone gets caught in an overhead power line, don't attempt to get it down yourself, call our emergency number to report it: 

 

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