Free Republic
Browse · Search
General/Chat
Topics · Post Article

To: frank ballenger
The note went on to say: "Note that there was not an exposed wire. Rather, a licensed electrician identified a wire inside the concrete that was the issue."

Here is what AI had to say when I asked how a wire buried under cement could electrocute a dog:

When a buried wire is covered by cement, it is generally considered to be a safe and secure way to protect the wire from damage and reduce the risk of electrocution. However, if a dog were to come into contact with a buried wire that is covered by cement, electrocution is still possible under certain circumstances.

Insufficient Cover: If the cement cover is not thick enough, it may not provide adequate protection against electrical shock. According to some guidelines, the concrete envelope around buried wiring must be at least two inches thick to be considered safe.

Damaged Wire or Conduit: If the wire or conduit is damaged, either during installation or due to environmental factors, it can create a pathway for electricity to escape, potentially harming a dog that comes into contact with it.

Poor Installation: If the buried wire is not installed correctly, it can increase the risk of electrocution. For example, if the wire is not properly sleeved or if the conduit is not correctly sealed, it can allow electricity to escape.

Type of Wire: The type of wire used can also play a role in the risk of electrocution. For example, Type UF cable normally requires 24 inches of cover, but if it’s sleeved with RMC, it only needs six inches of cover. If the wire is not properly rated for direct burial, it can increase the risk of electrocution.

It’s worth noting that electrocution from a buried wire covered by cement is relatively rare, and most cases of electrocution involve other factors, such as damaged wires or poor installation. However, it’s still important to take precautions when working with electrical wires and to ensure that they are installed and maintained properly to minimize the risk of electrocution.

Thanks for the additional information, the snow, or rather the ice did play a role in the electrocution, because that froze the dog due to the electricity running through the dog for too long. But it wasn't a downed wire, buried under snow.

It never occurred to me that a buried wire could do that.

You never stop learning. Thanks again for providing additional information. 🙂👍

30 posted on 01/07/2025 4:20:02 PM PST by Robert DeLong
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 18 | View Replies ]


To: Robert DeLong

Utility electricians are told that in the event of an underground cable being cut, to walk 50-100’ away from the fault while shuffling their feet.


43 posted on 01/07/2025 6:20:17 PM PST by Mean Daddy (Every time Hillary lies, a demon gets its wings. - Windflier)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 30 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
General/Chat
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson