NIE WARNS SAILING ENTHUSIASTS TO LOOK UP

05/03/2007

As the start of the sailing season approaches, Northern Ireland Electricity has issued a strong safety warning to sailing enthusiasts to take extra caution and to be aware of overhead electricity equipment when transporting yachts and other types of boats.  
 
David Cooke, NIE Safety Officer, urged all sailing enthusiasts to ensure a clearance of at least five metres from electricity equipment at all times when working on or launching boats. “We would urge all boat owners to always be on the look out for overhead power lines when transporting boats and when sailing around small islands and inland waterways. Plan the route. Look out for overhead power lines and any warning signs that may have been erected and also warnings on navigation charts to alert sailors to the presence of overhead power lines crossing waterways.  
 
“Many sailboats have masts of 9m (30ft) or more and as most of these masts are made of aluminium they are an excellent conductor of electricity. If an aluminium mast or rigging come into contact with or close to electricity lines a lethal hazard is created.”  
 
NIE advises all boat owners to take some simple precautions to stay safe.  
 
· Plan your route carefully when transporting your boat to or from the harbour or mooring, making sure you have adequate clearance under overhead power lines. When you are stepping the mast or erecting long aerials, be sure to do so in an area totally clear of overhead power lines. Be absolutely certain that the path you take to the slipway will not allow your mast or aerial to come into contact with overhead power lines. The same care and attention applies if a crane is being used to lift the boat into the water.  
 
· Once out on the water, if you are sailing on inland waterways or near islands or headlands, you should still look for overhead lines as power lines do cross over waterways. You must ensure that your mast or aerial has proper clearance from any overhead power lines.  
 
· When anchoring on inland waterways or islands, look out for warning signs on banks for submerged cables. Don't anchor boats over submerged cables.  
 
David adds, “Any contact can have potentially fatal consequences and we would urge anyone transporting yachts and boats to and from water to take overhead electricity equipment into account and to plan a safe route. Anyone requiring further safety advice should contact NIE on 08457 643 643 or check www.niesafety.co.uk.”  

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