Power Line Dangers: Is My RV Safe?

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A power line is dangerously low, just four feet above an RV, raising concerns about potential electrical hazards, especially if branches fall during rain. It is advised to move the RV to a safer location and investigate why the power line is so low. Grounding the RV's metal chassis can help prevent electrical shock if contact is made with the power line. If the RV becomes live, jumping from the vehicle without touching the ground simultaneously is crucial for safety. Overall, immediate action is necessary to mitigate risks associated with the low power line.
Marah Elisabeth
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There is a power line of undetermined voltage hanging just 4 feet above my RV and the stream running next to us. If during the rain, a branch from the redwood tree above us falls and causes the hot line to land on the RV and stay there, is there a way to prevent us being shocked while we try to escape? I am concerned as a limb fell last winter but missed the line. Should I put grounding rods on the four corners in the ground and connect to some copper? Any ideas? Thank you
 
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Welcome to PF.

That is insufficient clearance, you should move your RV now.
Find out why the power line is so low.

You need to ground the metal chassis of the RV in one place to prevent the vehicle voltage being different to ground. That should cut the power line supply if electrical contact with the RV is made.

If a vehicle might have become live, jump from the vehicle, so you do not contact the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
 
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Marah Elisabeth said:
There is a power line of undetermined voltage hanging just 4 feet above my RV and the stream running next to us. If during the rain, a branch from the redwood tree above us falls and causes the hot line to land on the RV and stay there, is there a way to prevent us being shocked while we try to escape? I am concerned as a limb fell last winter but missed the line. Should I put grounding rods on the four corners in the ground and connect to some copper? Any ideas? Thank you
Welcome to PF. :smile:

Using my Mentor superpowers, I can see that you live about 10 miles from where I live, so I'm very familar with your area. An RV is pretty non-conductive in the first place. Also, I'm not aware of anywhere here locally where the situation you describe exists. It sounds more like there is a cable TV line running above your RV/mobile home, in which case there are no issues (other than aesthetics).

If you are still worried, please just send me a Private Message (PM) with your address, and I'll bike or drive over and have a look.

Have a nice day. :smile:
 
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