Among the most tragic and preventable boating accidents are those in which a boat strikes a power line. Certain conditions (such as humidity and close proximity) will increase the probability of voltage seeking a ground.

Launching your boat

Look up to check for any overhead wires between your boat and the launching ramp before you even get near it. Make certain that you will not be raising the mast or antenna too close to the power line.

Traversing the water

High-voltage lines may cross reservoirs and other boating areas. If the tip of the mast or antenna should come close to or contact one of these lines, the electrical current may find a path to your boat and/or family members on-board. It is the boater’s responsibility to remain a safe distance away from the power lines and to know the distance between the boat’s waterline and the masthead. It is also imperative to know the height of the waterways at all times of the day in comparison to the height of the line, which is somewhat constant, but can change due to heat, humidity, or electrical load.

After a storm

Watch out for downed or sagging lines following a storm or high wind condition. Look for potential hazards. Please report any potentially hazardous conditions to 1-800-ENTERGY.

If contact is made with a power line

Should your boat come in contact with a power line, DO NOT jump into the water. The electrical charge could pass through the boat and ground into the waterway. The safest approach is to stay in the boat and avoid touching anything metal in nature. Leave the boat only after the boat has sufficiently moved away from the line.

 

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