Shooting near electrical equipment can be costly and deadly
HUNTING SEASON BRINGS outdoorspeople of all skill levels and experience into rural Kentucky, often to unfamiliar areas. While most hunters follow safe hunting practices, they also need to be aware of electric power lines and electrical equipment above them and on the ground—even in remote areas.
While skilled hunters wouldn’t deliberately shoot blindly toward an electric infrastructure, there have been instances over the years of accidental damage and intentional vandalism to some power poles and hardware. Electrical equipment damaged by gunshot is costly to the utility and to customers relying on that power. The damage can even spark a fire.
Hunters should never shoot near or toward overhead power lines, power poles or substations. A stray bullet can damage equipment. Sometimes the damage, such as to an insulator, isn’t noticed until it rains—and then it can cause an outage or a fire. Damage can also happen to the conductor, possibly dropping a line from its perch. If it’s dry and the electricity goes to ground, electrocution and fire could result.
Hunters also should familiarize themselves with the location of power lines and equipment on land where they are hunting, and be especially careful in wooded areas where they may not be able to see power lines. Landowners can help by reminding those hunting on their property to be aware of power lines and other electrical equipment. It goes without saying that sportsmen and sportswomen should heed warning signs and keep away from electrical equipment.
Hunters should not use utility poles or towers to support equipment used in hunting activities or for supporting deer stands. Energized lines and equipment on the poles can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution.
Of the many general safety tips for hunting, one is especially pertinent to electrical hazards: Always carry emergency items such as a first aid kit, cellphone, whistle and flashlight.
Electrical safety tips for hunters
- Keep these guidelines in mind during this hunting season:
- Note posted warning signs and keep clear of electrical equipment.
- Do not shoot at or near power lines or insulators.
- Know where power lines and equipment are located on the land where you hunt.
- Be especially careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.
- Do not place deer stands on utility poles or climb poles.
- Do not place decoys on power lines or other utility equipment. Any non-electrical equipment attached to a pole can pose an obstruction and serious hazards to our line crews.
Source: NRECA
STEVEN WATERS is Safety & Regulatory Compliance Coordinator at Meade County RECC.
