IDGC of Centre - Belgorodenergo division warns of the danger of flying hang-gliders, hot air balloons, and other aircraft near power lines. Collision with power facilities or approaching wires to an unacceptable distance can lead to irreversible consequences.
A resident of the Belgorod region engaged in motor-hang-gliding did not cope with the control of the aircraft and in the process of landing collided with a 10 kV overhead line belonging to an agricultural enterprise. The man was not injured, since the power line with a seasonal load, by happy coincidence, turned out to be de-energized. Otherwise, the person could have died.
Power engineers warn that errors in piloting, adverse weather conditions or a coincidence of circumstances can be a cause of the tragedy. In clear weather and in open areas, wires and power line poles are clearly visible. At dusk or bad weather at an altitude of less than 100 metres, the overhead lines have low contrast and merge with the surrounding background.
In order not to get into the security zone of overhead lines or substations of 6-110 kV, it is necessary to thoroughly examine the route, paying attention to the location of power facilities. When flying at low altitudes and in hilly terrain in conditions of poor visibility one must not maneuver over wires. In the event of an emergency, the aeronautic apparatus should be moved away from power lines in any way, since the hardest landing is safer than being hit by high voltage.
If a collision does occur, you need to leave the vessel, without touching its metal parts. In no case one can simultaneously hold the body of the apparatus, the frame of the hang-glider, the halyard of the ball and stand on the ground, or touch at once two high-voltage wires: all this is a mortal threat to a person.
IDGC of Centre - Belgorodenergo division reminds: in security zones of power lines it is dangerous to use (launch) any aircraft, land gliders, airplanes, hang-gliders, parachutes, kites and other aircraft on overhead lines. On their part Belgorodenergo’s specialists are ready to assist in conducting briefings and classes on electrical safety to interested persons.