02 May 2002 00:00 Don't Forget to "Look Out - Look Up!" when casting

Local anglers are being encouraged to “Look Out - Look Up!” when fishing with carbon fibre rods or poles near overhead power lines.


That is the message East Midlands Electricity is sending to fishermen in a bid to make sure they are aware of the potential dangers posed by overhead lines.


Anglers should always check for overhead power lines before fishing in rivers, canals and lakes. Power lines carried on wooden poles can be difficult to see, particularly among trees and hedges. They can also be mistaken for telephone wires, but these overhead lines can carry a potentially fatal voltage of up to 132,000 volts.


In addition, electricity at high voltages can jump gaps, so a rod does not even have to come into direct contact with a line - and carbon fibre rods and poles are good conductors of electricity.


It is difficult to estimate the height and distance of lines from the ground, so anglers must remember to keep an adequate safety distance – at least 30 metres away from the line measured along the ground.


Many modern fishing poles are easily long enough to reach overhead power lines. Anglers should remember to carry rods and poles parallel to the ground to avoid accidental contact.




Overhead power lines, poles and pylons should all be treated with caution. Here are some simple ‘do’s and don’ts’ to remember:



Modern Carbon fibre rods DO conduct electricity so look out, look up and keep clear.

Electricity WILL travel along your fishing rod or pole and through you if you get too close

DON’T fish anywhere near to an electric pylon. DON’T take the chance.

DON’T fish under electricity lines - the fishing line could become tangled with the overhead electricity wires

DO remember that electricity can jump gaps - so you don’t necessarily have to touch electrical equipment to get a lethal shock
While accidents are rare, EME asks that anglers remember the safety rules, respect the power of electricity and enjoy a good safe fishing trip.

For further safety advice, please call East Midlands Electricity Distribution Safety Team on 01332 393845 or visit the website at www.eme.co.uk.

ENDS

For further information contact:

Louise Scott, Media Relations Executive, on 024 7642 4292

Notes to Editors Jerry Carnell, East Midlands Electricity, Operational Safety Engineer is available for interview