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Ideas for Further Research
- Do some research to find an example of someone who survived an electric shock from a power line or an electric appliance. How did the incident happen? How could it have been prevented?
- Research efforts around the country to protect various forms of wildlife from electric power lines.
- Learn about AC and DC current. Why is AC current so much more dangerous to contact?
- Find out how utility line workers protect themselves when working around power lines. What type of clothing, vehicles, and equipment do they use? What type of training do they receive?
- Find some stories about people who have been injured or killed by mixing water and electricity. Examples: stepping in a puddle with a fallen power line in it, or using a hair dryer in the bathtub and dropping it in the water. Why were these actions so dangerous? What lessons can be learned?
- What are some things you can do around your home to make it safer regarding water and electricity? Report to the class about a safety measure that you have taken at home.
- Interview an electrician. What kind of training is required? What kind of licensing? Has she or he ever been shocked? How?
- Has anyone in your community been struck by lightning? What were the circumstances? How was the person affected? How could the strike have been prevented?
- Find out where most of the natural gas is found that we currently use in the United States.
- Do some research to find out whether gas is heavier than air. What does this tell you about where most natural gas will collect in the event of a gas leak in your home?
