Power lines warning

AN Oldham engineer is warning youngsters of the shocking effects of playing too close to overhead power lines.

Ian Riordan, United Utilities’ network engineer, who lives in Oldham, said children often did not realise the danger they were in.

Harmless activities like fishing and flying a kite could be lethal if poles or strings come into contact with wires.

Ian said: “If a fishing rod or a kite string gets too close to an overhead power line you don’t want to be holding on to the other end. Electricity can jump short distances and it can kill so always keep your distance.”

Every year engineers in Oldham find evidence that people have taken unnecessary chances, like string and fishing line wrapped round wires.

United Utilities, which runs the North-West’s electricity supply network, wants parents to give their children a quick pep talk before they head out to play.

He added: “We don’t want to ruin their fun, but tell them to have a good look around before they play. If they can see overhead wires they need to walk away and find somewhere else that’s safer.”

Look out for warning signs and keep clear of equipment like substations marked with the yellow “danger of death” symbol.

They say never attempt to enter a substation if you kick your ball over the wall and if you see an open substation door tell an adult to report it , bit do not go inside.