Street Zaps!

Safety

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Street Lights

Lamppost poles and their compartments are a possible source of shock as thieves and vandals can easily access the electrical connections at their base.  Pedestrians should be aware that an ajar or missing panel or one with a protuberant plug constitute significant warnings of tampering/risk.  When the photo cell is damaged internally, a lamppost compartment can leak voltage ... whether or NOT it is illuminated, even when appearing to be fully intact.

Metal Covers and Plates

Metal on the street or sidewalk can be electrified if deteriorated or improperly installed.   Shoddy construction and maintenance can cause the building metal access to become energized if the internal wiring is faulty, poorly maintained, or not in general compliance with building codes.  Renovation and ongoing construction sites utilizing temporary wiring can create a higher possibility for a shocking incident.

Other Urban Metal

Ubiquitous metal plates on the streets and sidewalks with decaying wiring may jolt the passerby.  Rampant power pilferage, vandalism, wayward construction, or vehicular accidents can leave enlivened areas in their wake.

Outdoor Lights Have Bite

While lovely to look at, decorative lighting may over time pose a risk to pedestrians and their pets since its insulation can decay from long-term exposure to temperature change, weather, and even tropical sun.

While it is complicit that proprietors install only outdoor service lighting according to manufacturers' instructions, it behooves businesses to inspect sporadically their lights to determine whether their wiring has become deteriorated; that replacement lamps are truly secure in their sockets; and that all sockets, plugs, and other connectors are sufficiently insulated against immersion from rain or snow to safeguard against shock hazards to the general public.

Dog Booties Get The Boot!

Dog booties are NO PROTECTION FROM VOLTAGE LEAKAGE and can actually INCREASE THE CHANCE OF A SHOCKING if water-logged.

At present, the material they are made from shields against cold, moisture, and rock salt, but does not insulate against electricity and when saturated creates an even greater hazard.

A person can complain of leaky boots, a dog can't!

Booties that protect against voltage are still a 'concept' rather than a practical option.  Any 'safe' product will require much research and development before they can insulate any dog.  Even electrical workers conduct periodic checks of their gloves and clothing to ensure safety and even more so with dog booties because the wearer relies on the purchaser's judgment.

Additionally, although some rescuers recommend Musher's Wax, which is readily available and easy to apply, it will not protect against stray voltage either.