Ilustración de una torre electrica con la señal de peligro

Electrical Risk Prevention

Por Carolina Martínez Trapero

Head of Prevention at i-DE

An expert in the electrical sector with over 25 years of experience. She began her career at the Iberdrola Group in 1994 in the environmental area. In 2017, she expanded her role to include occupational risk prevention in the Customer Business. In 2025, she joined i-DE to contribute her expertise in occupational risk prevention.

30 Jun 2025

At i-DE, the distribution company of the Iberdrola Group, we always prioritize people’s safety especially today, that of young people.

Our mission is to raise awareness about the dangers associated with electrical installations and to promote responsible habits to prevent accidents.

Electricity is not a game, and with the right information on electrical safety, we can avoid situations that put our well-being at risk.

Updated text: 30/06/2025

What do we mean by electrical risks?

Electrical risks refer to any situation in which people may suffer harm due to proximity to or contact with electricity.

In recent years, we’ve seen an alarming increase in dangerous behavior among young people who, in search of likes or followers, climb electrical towers or approach live installations. These actions, in addition to being reckless, are extremely dangerous, as they expose individuals to severe burns, electrocution, and even death.

Tips for Young People: Electricity Is Not a Game

Selfies are fine but keep your distance from electricity.

Don’t approach poles, towers, or substations to take photos.
A good photo isn’t worth a shock. Electricity can jump without direct contact.

Remember

If you see signs that say “Electrical Hazard,” stay away. It’s not decoration, it’s a real warning.

Partying Responsibly

At concerts or festivals, don’t climb supports, poles, substations, or other electrical installations.
Even if it seems fun or like a good spot to get a better view, it can have serious consequences.

Remember:

Electricity doesn’t give warnings. You don’t need to touch anything for current to pass through your body.

Don’t Turn Electrical Areas into Playgrounds

Jumping fences, entering substations, or tampering with electrical boxes is no joke. Even if they look abandoned, they may still be active.

Remember:

If you see someone doing this, warn them. They may not realize the risk they’re taking.

Don’t Charge Your Phone Just Anywhere

On the street or at parties, avoid plugging your phone into electrical boxes or makeshift setups. You could damage the equipment or get shocked.

Remember:

Bring a power bank or use safe charging stations.

Be the One Who Speaks Up, Not the One Who Regrets It

If you see an open, damaged, or dangerous electrical installation, don’t ignore it.
Take a photo (from a safe distance) and report it to the distribution company or call 112.

Remember:

Being responsible is also part of having fun.

Do You Know the Most Common Electrical Risks and How to Prevent Them?

Electricity is part of our daily lives in every way. That’s why it’s important to understand the two most common types of electrical risks and how to prevent thems:

Electrical Risks at Home

Electricity is essential in our homes, but improper use can lead to serious accidents.
Knowing the most common risks and how to prevent them is key to maintaining a safe environment for the whole family.

Don’t overload outlets: Plugging too many devices into one outlet can cause overheating and fires. Use power strips with surge protection and circuit breakers. Remember: the total load must not exceed the outlet’s maximum capacity.
Electricity and water don’t mix: Water conducts electricity. Don’t touch appliances, cables, or switches with wet hands or while barefoot. Dry your hands thoroughly before handling any electrical device.
Unplug what you’re not using: Many devices continue to consume energy and may overheat. Unplug them when not in use, especially when leaving home.
Protect young children: Install safety covers on accessible outlets and teach children about electrical risks.
Inspect cables and outlets: Frayed cables or loose outlets can cause short circuits or shocks and damage your devices. Perform monthly visual checks and replace damaged components.

Electrical Risks Outside the Home

In public or outdoor spaces, we’re also exposed to electrical risks that often go unnoticed.
Knowing how to identify them and act cautiously can prevent serious accidentss.

Don’t touch electrical boxes: General Protection Boxes contain connections that distribute electricity to buildings and homes. Keep a safe distance just bringing a conductive material like a ring or chain close could cause current to flow. If you see one open, don’t touch it: call the local police or the distribution company.
Stay away from electrical supports: Cables, poles, and towers carry high-voltage electricity. They can arc and cause shocks even without contact. Always keep your distance.
Substations and transformers: These facilities should only be operated by trained and authorized technicians. Never try to enter or tamper with them, even if they appear unused.
Trees and cables: Branches touching electrical cables can cause short circuits or shocks. Stay away and report it to the distribution company or call 112.
Report any anomaly: Loose cables, sparks, noises, open installations, or strange smells are signs of danger. Don’t approach report it to 112 or the distribution company.

In Case of an Electrical Accident, Remember the Key: P.A.S

PROTECT

Before acting, make sure the injured person is no longer in contact with or affected by the electrical installation. There is a risk of death

ALERT

Call emergency services before taking any other action.

HELP

Assist the injured person by assessing the situation to ensure you’re not in danger and apply appropriate resuscitation techniques.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, CALL 112