Northamptonshire pupils taught about new overhead electric wires

Network Rail has launched an educational project to teach Northamptonshire pupils about the safety precautions associated with the new overhead electric wires. The project aims to educate students about the risks involved and how to stay safe around these wires. With 25,000 volts set to run through 22 miles of newly-installed wiring, Network Rail wants to ensure that people in the area are well-informed about the potential dangers. They believe that educating young people about these risks is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both residents and rail workers. As part of the initiative, Network Rail has been visiting schools in Northamptonshire to deliver safety presentations and workshops. These sessions cover topics such as the importance of staying away from the electrified tracks, the hazards of climbing onto railway infrastructure, and the necessity of following safety signs and regulations. The project also includes a virtual reality experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in a realistic scenario where they encounter the dangers associated with the overhead electric wires. This interactive experience aims to provide a memorable and impactful demonstration of the potential risks, helping students understand the importance of safety precautions. Network Rail's community engagement manager, Kelly Arkell, emphasized the significance of educating young people about railway safety. She stated, "By teaching students about the dangers on and around the railway, we can make sure they are aware of the consequences of trespassing or behaving irresponsibly, saving lives and preventing accidents." The introduction of overhead electric wires is part of Network Rail's ongoing program to modern