15 March 2005 00:00 Central Networks calls on all local fishermen to ‘Look Out and Look Up’

Central Networks, the electricity distribution company for central England, is urging local anglers to ‘Look Out and Look Up’ when fishing near overhead power lines.

The warning comes as anglers again take to the region’s riverbanks with modern fishing poles long enough to reach overhead power lines that can carry a potentially fatal voltage of up to 132,000 volts.

Stephen Hennell, Central Networks’ Network and Public Safety Manager, said: “It’s vital that fishermen are aware of the potential dangers posed by overhead power lines.

“They should always check for overhead lines before fishing as carbon fibre rods and fishing poles are good conductors of electricity. It’s important to be aware that high voltages electricity can jump gaps, so a rod doesn’t even have to come into direct contact with a line for anglers to be in danger.

“’Look Out and Look Up’ is a simple message, but if anglers listen to it when they’re out on local waterways, it could prevent unnecessary injury and help save lives.”

To avoid accidental contact fishermen should always carry rods and poles parallel to the ground and at all times keep an adequate safety distance – at least 30 metres from the line measured along the ground.

Stephen has these simple ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ to remember:
• Modern carbon fibre rods DO conduct electricity so ‘Look Out and Look Up’;
• DON’T fish anywhere near overhead power lines, poles or pylons - DON’T take the chance;
• DO remember that electricity can jump gaps – so your line doesn’t even have to come into direct contact with a power line for you to get a lethal shock.
• Many responsible waterway owners and fishing clubs post signs warning of the dangers of nearby overhead wires DON’T ignore them

ENDS

Notes to editors:
• Central Networks is the new name for Midlands Electricity and East Midlands Electricity;
• Central Networks covers an area from the Peak District to parts of Bristol and from the Welsh Borders to the Lincolnshire Coast.

For more information and contact:
Kathy Doyle on 024 7642 4292
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