Angling Trust reels in safety message with Northern Powergrid partnership

The Angling Trust is renewing its partnership with Northern Powergrid to help keep anglers safe on the bank this summer through the powerful “Look Up It’s Live!” campaign.

Designed to raise awareness of the dangers posed by overhead electricity lines, the campaign reminds anglers to look up before they hook up – as contact with or proximity to power lines can lead to serious injury or even death.

With some overhead lines carrying voltages of up to 132,000 volts, a moment’s distraction can be life-changing. The joint campaign will educate anglers on the risks of fishing near overhead cables and share essential safety advice on how to stay safe while enjoying time on the water.

Jamie Cook, CEO of the Angling Trust, said:

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Northern Powergrid. Their support and expertise have enhanced our ability to warn anglers of the dangers of fishing near power lines. It’s a simple message but a hugely important one and Northern Powergrid are leading the way in their industry to ensure that safety messaging gets out to grass roots anglers with our help.”

As part of the campaign, the Angling Trust will share Northern Powergrid’s ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ leaflet with members via direct communications, blogs, social media, and newsletter features. Fisheries, angling clubs, and tackle shops are also encouraged to display the campaign materials and help spread the word.

Gareth Pearson, Director of Health, Safety and Training at Northern Powergrid, added:

“We’ve renewed our partnership with the Angling Trust to target and reach anglers to help keep them safe.

“High voltage currents can pass through almost all fishing rods and poles, so we ask anglers to tackle safety before they set off and look up before they hook up, to make sure fishing equipment does not contact our power network.

“If anglers do make contact with electricity, take leaping strides, move away from the area and ensure one foot is off the ground at all times. Warn others to stay away, maintain a five-metre clearance and call us on 105 for assistance. Always dial 999 if it’s a medical emergency.”

Top tips to tackle fishing safely:

• Look Up – It’s Live! Be aware of overhead power lines that may carry up to 132,000 volts.
• Carry rods and poles horizontally.
• Unpack and set up rods at the water’s edge, away from overhead lines.
• Stay alert in poor visibility, especially at dawn, dusk or in bad weather.
• Follow warning signs and avoid restricted areas.
• Electricity can jump gaps – stay well clear, even without direct contact.
• Report near-misses by calling 105 and informing the fishery owner.

An electronic version of the ‘Look Up It’s Live!’ safety leaflet is available here 

For further information about the Angling Trust’s role in angler safety and education, click here