APS Urges Safety Near Power Lines
Conn. Incident Tragic Reminder of Electricity’s Danger

June 10, 2010

APS urges the public to exercise extreme caution near power lines in light of a recent electric contact fatality that occurred in Connecticut.

On June 1, two men were power washing the exterior of a home in Milford, Conn., when the aluminum ladder they were using came into contact with an overhead power line. One of the men was electrocuted, and pronounced dead at the scene; the other was transferred to a hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries, according to a newspaper report.

"This is a tragic accident that didn't have to happen," said Randy Boles, a senior public safety consultant for APS. "Electricity is extremely unforgiving, and severe injury or even death can be the result of a single accidental contact. We implore everyone to take extreme caution near any electrical equipment."

To ensure those working near overhead power lines remain safe, APS issues the following five tips:

1. Look up. Be aware of overhead power lines. Always look up for the location of power lines when carrying or setting up a ladder or maneuvering forklifts, cranes and other equipment. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration requires a 10-foot working clearance on equipment that carry up to 50,000 volts.
   
   
2. Have help when venturing on a ladder or rooftop. Never get yourself, tools, materials and/or equipment closer than 10 feet from any overhead power lines.
   
   
3. Use caution when trimming trees. Before attempting any tree pruning, look for overhead power lines that may be near and/or hidden by the tree foliage. If there are any concerns with overhead power lines and trees on your property, contact APS prior to attempting any tree work.
   
   
4. Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder when installing holiday lights or in the presence of overhead power lines. An aluminum ladder can be a conductor of electricity.
   
   
5. Treat all overhead lines with caution and respect. Even low-voltage electric lines and cords can be hazardous if damaged or improperly handled.

More information on public safety can be found at aps.com. Any questions can be directed to APS at (602) 371-7171 in the Phoenix metro area, or (800) 253-9405 statewide.

APS, Arizona's largest and longest-serving electricity utility, serves about 1.1 million customers in 11 of the state's 15 counties. With headquarters in Phoenix, APS is the principal subsidiary of Pinnacle West Capital Corp. (NYSE: PNW)

Damon Gross
(602) 250-2269