Omnidirectional Antenna  (150-1618)     Safety         Faxback Doc. # 6814

Many do-it-yourself and professional antenna installers are injured or
killed each year by electric shock.  While anyone can see the obvious
danger of falling, the resourceful sometimes fail to recognize overhead
wires as being potentially lethal.  To touch any part of the antenna mast
or guy wire to these overhead wires is the same as touching the wires with
your bare hand.  A very serious shock is almost sure to result when
contacting an electrical wire, and in the case of primary wires on the top
of poles, the shock is like being struck by a bolt of lightning.  Many
power wires are within 20 to 25 feet of the ground and  could easily be
touched by an assembled antenna and mast.


Please read and follow these suggestions, if applicable:

1.  Try to have two people available for help, if needed.

2.  Try to select an antenna site well away from all overhead wires.

3.  If possible, do all assembly work on the ground and then raise the
    antenna.

4.  Do not try to install the antenna when it is windy.

5.  If anything should come in contact with the overhead wires, call the
    power company.  They will remove it safely.

6.  Do not try to guess which overhead wires carry high voltage.  Check
    with the power company.

7.  Make the installation secure.  Use plenty of guy wires and good 
    hardware.

8.  Make sure the antenna mast and downlead cable are connected to
    suitable lightning arrestors.

9.  Use at least No. 8 ground wire between the mast and ground.

10. Do not run the downlead cable over power wires.

11. Get professional help when removing the old antenna if there is any
    doubt of clearing overhead wires.

(CJD/all-7/11/94)