With the bank holiday nearing, UK Power Networks advises caravanners to look out for power lines when outdoors
With the summer bank holiday just a stone’s throw away, it is almost certain that many of us are planning to make a break for it in our caravans to explore the countryside. And now, UK Power Networks caution is advising those that do to look out for overhead electricity lines.
Safety experts at the company, which delivers electricity to the East of England, London, and the Southeast is encouraging caravanners and campers to “look out and look up” before setting up camp.
According to the company’s head of health and safety, Peter Vujanic, as well as being aware of the power lines, caravanners should be careful as to where they place their TV aerials. Caution should also be extended towards where a campfire is started or where washing lines are tied.
Vujanic said: “Camping and caravanning are fantastic ways to enjoy the great outdoors and we want everyone to enjoy their leisure time safely.
“Cables and power lines can carry anything from 230 volts to 132,000 volts and even coming into contact with the lowest voltage cables can be fatal.
“Overhead power lines are more common in the countryside than towns and much of the equipment associated with camping and caravanning can easily conduct electricity so it is always wise to ‘look out and look up’ first and then follow some simple guidelines so everyone can be happy – and safe – campers,” he concluded.
Amongst the aforementioned advice, UK Power Network also cautions caravanners to stay well away from any lines in the vicinity of the campsite you are intending to use as much of the camping and caravanning equipment can conduct electricity (metal and carbon fibre tent poles, guy lines, etc.).
Always carry anything that can conduct electricity horizontally and parallel with the ground since electricity can jump across gaps.
Never attempt to judge the height of power lines and never attach or tie anything to power line wooden poles, pylons, or electrical equipment.
Never light a fire under an overhead line. The fire produces heat that could cause the wires to droop low or even to break.
For more safety tips, check out the UK Power Networks website and remember to be safe out there!
