TTC Toronto Hydro is warning people about the dangers of contact voltage on city
streets after two dogs were electrocuted earlier this month.

Hydro customers will receive a leaflet about contact voltage – the electricity
found on surfaces of outdoor structures like streetlights and handwells (metal
covers on the sidewalk) as well as suggested safety precautions.

Contact voltage presents a potentially fatal shock if people or animals come into
contact with the surfaces.

TTC /Toronto Hydro agrees that electrical infrastructure is partly to blame, in
addition to streetcar vibrations and freezing/thawing patterns which may affect
wiring.Toronto Hydro is upgrading the infrastructure and installing non-metal
handwells. Additionally, TTC Hydro trucks will patrol the city looking for voltage
hotspots.