What happens when a metal ladder accidently comes in contact with an overhead electric line? Or when a squirrel introduces itself to a transformer? Or when a power line breaks and comes in contact with an automobile or construction vehicle? The results can be deadly and thanks to American Electric Power (AEP) and the Westerville Electric Division, seventh grade students at Heritage Middle School got to see firsthand just how dangerous these scenarios can be.
AEP brought its Live Line Demonstration to Heritage pupils on Friday, October 9, as part of Public Power Week. Questionable weather might have forced cancellation, but thanks to the generosity of Westerville Fire Station 113, located across the street from Heritage, fire trucks were moved from the garage and the show went on for six thrilling performances throughout the day.
The Live Line Demonstration consists of everything one would find in any neighborhood, but on a smaller scale. Utility poles, overhead lines, transformers and other electrical equipment are all placed on a mobile trailer that can be taken to audiences across the company’s service area.
The equipment is energized by an onboard generator so trained professionals can simulate what happens in real-life situations. The purpose of the unit is to educate audiences about all aspects of the electrical infrastructure that surrounds them, while highlighting safety messages through physical demonstrations of electrical contacts and hazard situations.
For example, as part of the presentation, the unit is used to recreate what will happen if a ladder makes contact with an overhead electric line. Not only do viewers get to see the outcome, they hear the impact, which AEP Ohio hopes will resonate with the public.
AEP Ohio developed the Live Line Demonstration as an education tool. While the primary focus was to use the unit to demonstrate electrical safety concepts to emergency service groups and first-responders, such as fire and police department personnel, it has broad applications beyond that. The program will likely be remembered for a long time by the Heritage students and educators who were fortunate enough to see it.