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If you’ve ever taken the time to study the power lines on your street, you may have wondered about the colored balls attached to the wires. Electric companies use these devices to make power lines visible to aircraft flying overhead. Still, they can be subtly different, as the guide below explains.

Purpose

While flying is technically safer than driving, it is only because of the precautions that the Federal Aviation Administration takes to eliminate as many risk factors as possible. Accidents, when they do occur, tend to happen during or shortly after take-off or during or shortly before landing—with one concern being that the plane or helicopter will hit communication or electric lines located near airports or other landing spots. These aerial marker balls, weighing about 17 pounds and which should be at least 20 inches across, come in shades of red, yellow, white, and orange, because these provide the most contrast with the sky.

What Determines Their Color?

electric companyBall colors are determined based on the terrain surrounding the power line. For instance, a pattern of orange, yellow, and white, are chosen when there are rivers or canyon crossings in the vicinity. However, electric companies use red and white often because it offers the most contrast against the sky. Colors are always alternating to draw more attention to the wires rather than blending in as part of the landscape, unless four or less are used, in which case, the default color is orange. They should be spaced 200 feet apart or less.

 

Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative, based in Espanola, NM, has offered electrical services to residential and commercial customers throughout Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, San Juan, McKinley, and Sandoval since 1947. Unlike investor-owned electric companies, they are run by and for the community, guaranteeing affordable prices for customers. Visit their website to learn more about their rates. Or call (505) 753-2105 to talk to this electric company about arranging service.

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