Hotline of power engineering specialists:
The attempt to steal electricity in late April 2017 in the village of Petryanino in Elninsky district of the Smolensk region tragically ended. Near one of the houses a corpse of a man was found next to which a wire laid, unauthorizedly thrown on the wires of a 0.4 kV overhead line. The deceased is a local resident born in 1964, who did not work anywhere.
When there was an official investigation into this incident involving representatives of Rostekhnadzor it was established that the 0.4 kV lines are operated in accordance with the requirements of the law, and the actions of the victim are recognized as illegal. "The victim, when carrying out unlawful actions near the power line, approached at an unacceptable distance current-carrying parts that are under voltage and was fatally electrocuted," commented the deputy chief engineer-head of the department of industrial safety Vasily Gipich. "The man not only neglected the rules of electrical safety, but also broke the law in search of "free" electricity."
According to the information of specialists of IDGC of Centre - Smolenskenergo division, this consumer was disconnected for arrears in payment for electric power, and the personal account was closed as far back as 2009.
The energy company reminds that "illegal connections with thrown wire", which are often produced in the private sector, not only lead to a reduction in the quality and reliability of electricity supply to consumers. Most importantly, they pose a threat to human life and health. Cases of injuries and deaths near electric power facilities are not rare: anglers get electric injuries who behave inconsiderately near power lines, despite warning signs and posters, it is not uncommon for people who try to steal wires or electrical equipment from power facilities.
IDGC of Centre - Smolenskenergo division reminds that actions of unauthorized entry into the territory of power facilities and unauthorized connection to electric grids are not only illegal, but also deadly. Be careful in handling electricity, do not expose your life and others to danger. With an imprudent and frivolous attitude towards electricity, it can carry a mortal danger.