Here’s What Happens When You Grab a Cable With 30,000 Volts of Power

I dare say that it’s pretty… shocking.

Have you ever been shocked by electricity? No, I don’t mean the static shock that you might get after rubbing your feet on the carpet. I mean the good, old fashioned “fork in a plug” or “finger in a light socket” kind of shock.

If you have, you know that the experience can be pretty unnerving. But that’s not only because of the voltage; current plays a significant role in whether a shock means a light, tingling sensation or a pronouncement of death.

In fact, there are ways to grab onto live wires containing 30,000 volts, though you still probably shouldn’t do it. Here’s what that looks like: