Campers should always ‘look out and look up’ to ensure they are careful where they pitch their units, place tent poles, TV aerials or hang washing, according to the UK Power Networks reminder.
Nathan Hughes, the power firm’s Public Safety and Education Advisor, said: “Overhead power lines are more common in the countryside than towns and much of the equipment associated with camping and caravanning can easily conduct electricity, so it is always wise to ‘look out and look up’ first and then follow some simple guidelines so campers can be happy and safe.”

The Club also has its own safety guidelines and advice – our Technical Manager Ian Hewlett added: “Electricity can be extremely dangerous and overhead cables carry much higher voltages than domestic supplies, so follow the UK Power Network advice and always check the area around your pitch for hazards.”

UK Power Network’s overhead power line safety tips

• If possible, avoid pitching your tent or caravan directly under or close to an overhead power line.
• Be aware of any nearby overhead lines when erecting TV aerials or radio masts next to mobile homes or fixed caravans.
• Metal and carbon fibre tent poles, guy ropes, TV aerials and almost every other long object can conduct electricity. Electricity can jump across gaps so always carry them horizontally and parallel with the ground.
• Never attach or tie anything to electricity poles, pylons or electrical equipment.
• Never light a fire under an overhead line, heat from the fire could cause the wires to sag or break.