I have to trim some branches off a tree that might cause some problems with my roof shingles. The tree is on the corner of the house, the main electrical feed comes into the mast in this area as well. The wires are insulated, so is there any real danger there if I happen to accidentaly come in contact with them? By all means I'd try to stay away, but it is a tricky area...
2007-01-23 07:22:57 · 9 answers · asked by concerned 2 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Ok, I figured I'd get that response...I know this should get done by a pro and not take chances.
What I want to know is if the wire is insulated (100A feed so 3x1/c #3), assuming there are no breaks in the insulation, how would it be possible to be electricuted, whether it be touching by hand or even with an aluminium ladder?
2007-01-23 07:39:37 · update #1
Not unless the insulation is cracked or otherwise deteriorated. You have to use good judgement to determine the safety factors. I work around situations like that. I never use an aluminum ladder, I wear rubber gardening gloves and never stand on a sloped area where I can lose my balance. If you decide to do it, use pruning shears with insulated handles. NEVER use a chain saw, around electric wires! If you at all feel uncomfortable about doing it, ask your power company for advise.
2007-01-23 07:40:49 · answer #1 · answered by billy brite 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Several factors are at work here. In a normal situation, insulated wires should not pose any undue threat. But in this one we are talking about wires exposed completely to the elements, and maybe abrasion by tree branches. Since they are way up there, how do you know the insulation is intact?
Someone already mentioned avoiding aluminum ladders in this scenario. Also, even if the insulation was factory new, you are balanced on a ladder with a cutting tool of some kind. There is probably more chance of the electric shock throwing you off the ladder than direct electrocution, but either way you can get paralyzed.
This happend to a guy I used to work with. He was an ENGINEER. But an unforseen gust of wind allowed him to contact the wire, the zap tossed him off the ladder and onto his head. Broke his neck. (Had a shock not been involved dazing him, he might have landed differently or blocked himself better.)
It's your call, you have freewill. But what will your family do?
2007-01-23 09:20:33 · answer #2 · answered by KirksWorld 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The best rule of thumb is to de-energize the line. You don't ever take the chance of coming into contact with a live electrical line with an aluminum ladder or your hand. unless, of course, you want to attempt suicide.
Even a pro will use specially insulated gloves before handling any energized wire. You cannot tell visually if the line is 100% insulated. You grab on and the amperage(which is what will kill you) will take the path of least resistance, which in any case may well be you!! Call your utility if you have to do it yourself!
2007-01-23 08:17:21 · answer #3 · answered by cliff g 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Any time there are any wires involved, insulated or not there is always a chance of getting electrocuted. Especially if it is the Main to the house.
Yes this is a very very tricky situation. If you insist on doing it yourself, first increase your life insurance to about 1Million, lol....
Seriously.....
Have a tree cutting service come out and do this for you, or ask the city to do it. I wouldnt do it because of the risks, I've been there with an old tree and just had a tree servive come out and take care of it. 500$ and I had no risk of ME getting killed.
2007-01-23 07:31:32 · answer #4 · answered by jeff the drunk 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
with the amount of power going though the lines, there is always risk. I've done alot of roofing and have never done it personally but have seen several people grab, rub, and climb all over the power lines. I've brushed against 'em a few times and never got the slightest tingle..
save your money and do it yourself, just take your time and do it safe as you can. If your that woried just call the power company and they will turn the juice off to the lines and even drop them down if you feel you might drop a large limb and damage something.
2007-01-23 07:38:18 · answer #5 · answered by paducahshane1 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is minimal risk but risk is still there. Just do not touch the wires with your body or a matal objecy. If the branch is on it and the branch touching you there is even less risk because the branch itself will just add more resistance between the insulation and you body. Hell, I'd do it.
2007-01-23 07:50:52 · answer #6 · answered by redbird 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes there is a very good chance of electrocution if you touch them, especially if you are grounded (al. ladder, touching the house, a tree, etc.) do NOT contact the power lines, even with a tool or gloves, as the power level can arc across even space. call the power company and they will trim the branches for free if they are a hazard. good luck.
2007-01-23 07:32:24 · answer #7 · answered by geezer 51 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
OI, even though it may be pricey, I would get a profesional out there to take a look at it. I mean, yeah professionals here may be helpful, but noone can really SEE the situation at hand. I would definately get one to come look at it. Don't take any risks.
2007-01-23 07:27:13 · answer #8 · answered by hammettgoddess 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Call the power company and ask if they will come trim it. Sometimes they will.
If you use an aluminum ladder, you're nuts.
2007-01-23 13:05:56 · answer #9 · answered by nope n 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋