Electricity & High Voltage
Fallen power lines, step potential, wet circuits, and why direct current is unsentimental.
Electricity Currently Using a Person as a Wire
“Never touch an energized person; kill the power at the breaker first, call 911/112, start CPR if pulseless, and hospitalize for ECG.”
NEVER TOUCH VICTIM DIRECTLY WHILE IN CIRCUIT: Current will pass through your body. Disconnect power at main circuit breaker or unplug cord immediately.
Power Line, Inconveniently on the Ground
“Keep a 10-meter perimeter; if caught inside the gradient, shuffle with feet touching or hop with both feet together.”
STAY AT LEAST 10 METERS (33 FT) AWAY: Treat every downed line as fully energized. Keep clear of lines, fences, and wet ground.
Vehicle Currently Touching a Live Power Line
“Stay inside the car; if fire forces you out, jump completely clear with feet together and shuffle 10 meters away without touching car and ground at the same time.”
STAY INSIDE THE VEHICLE (FARADAY CAGE): The vehicle body is an equipotential Faraday cage and safe as long as you stay completely inside.