Shocking myths about electricity: MUST KNOW for safety!

Electricity is very much part of our day today lives. We use a lot of electrical appliances day in and day out.

In fact a few minutes of electricity shut down could cause lots of discomfort and even monetary losses at various levels.

As they say, any modern invention has its own downsides too.

While electricity helps us in numerous ways, we need to remember that it is deadly too.

If we are not careful enough and if we believe the most common myths, we could run ourselves and our fellow humans into danger.

This video is to clarify certain misconceptions about electricity. It is very important that you know this information for your safety!

Myth #1: All power lines are insulated

This is one of the biggest myths that’s around. The truth is just the opposite.

Almost all power lines remain raw and un-insulated as the cost of insulation is very high and the chances of the insulation getting damaged is also very high.

Some low lying power lines could be insulated. But we don’t really know for sure if the insulation is intact or if it is damaged due to weather conditions.

And all of the overhead power lines are not insulated.

Myth #2: Wood is a not a conductor

Well, wood is just a poor conductor. That doesn’t make it an insulator.

Depending upon its nature – that is, whether it is dry or wet, its conductive properties will change.

Even though using a wooden ladder is much better than a steel ladder, you still have to be very careful and avoid relying on wood for safety.

Myth #3: Rubber gloves and rubber shoes are insulators

Well, rubber is an insulator. That means, only pure rubber.

But your household gloves and shoes are not made of pure rubber. They are mixed with other substances too.

So don’t rely on those the next time you have to have an encounter with electricity.

Myth #4: A live wire sparks when falling down

This is probably due to the wrong portrayal of such incidents in movies.

A live wire only sparks when it cannot make proper contact with the ground.

If it falls on the ground (or makes contact with a conductor) it will not spark or make any noise. 

Due to this, the line might look dead.

But that doesn’t mean that the line is dead. The wire is still live and carries electricity.

Don’t attempt to touch one!

Myth #5: Household electricity is not dangerous

Well well, that’s really a dangerous myth. Many people think that household electricity is not strong enough to be fatal.

The reality is just the opposite.

There have been numerous reported cases of deaths due to household electricity. 

So be safe.

#Myth #6: A fallen wire automatically shuts off

This happens only when the incident leads to a short circuit. 

But the chances for that to happen depend on the surface on which the wire falls. 

Even if there are no sparks and no noise, the wire could still be live. So stay away from it!

Myth #7 All extension cords can be used outdoors

This is not true. There are extension cords designed specifically for outdoor usage.

Such cords are usually called weatherproof extension cords.

Don’t forget to read the labels on the extension cords before purchasing them. 

And if you don’t see such a label indicating that the extension cord can be used outdoors, don’t use it outdoors.

Well those are some of the most popular, yet shocking myths about electricity. Knowing the truth will actually save you literally in this case.

I hope you found this video useful. If so, please give it a like and share it with your friends.