ORIGINAL: doucette
Just curious, we all know one shouldn't fly too close to overhead power lines. Ten feet is way too close, 5 miles is obviously more than enough distance... How far away is ''safe enough?''
I guess my rule of thumb is 3 times the length of the lines...Interested in what others use as a guideline or if there is an ''official'' number.
best regards and Merry Christmas to all!
Tom
AMA Safety Code, both 2006-present, and 2010 state:
"2. I will ensure that my flying area is clear of all utility wires or poles and I will not fly a model aircraft closer than 50 feet to any above-ground electric utility lines."
Personally that is not far enough for me. I like to at least be enough to have some run-back room if lines go slack for some reason, like 200 Ft. or so.
When using any handle where you may touch any part of a metal line or connection, you can well get static shocks while flying especially when you are griping fairly tight, like overheads, etc. Sunny days and rainy days. When Thunderstorms are in the area, that enhances the shock potential, even if you are out of range of hearing thunder. BTDT to actually having a BURN on the palm of my right hand.
I loved that short version of the EZ Just handle. The cable was on the back. Always getting pings regardless of wx except when fairly cold. I like the small pylon handle as there is no touch to metal. I have a couple home-made that adjust easily but have no metal-touch. I have not experienced any significant pings using these handles.