Potomac Light and Power Company

"BOYS' AND RIFLES CAUSE

ELECTRIC CUTOFF IN VALLEY

It has been learned that the interruption of electric service on March 26, was caused by boys using electric insulators as targets for their rifle practice.

At about 5:30 p.m. on that day Petersburg and several neighboring communities were without electricity for periods ranging from eight to fifteen minutes as the result of line failures. According to C. C. Godlove, local manager of the Potomac Light and Power Company it was only unusually quick work in locating the source of the trouble that prevented a longer and more serious interruption. Once the damage was located that particular section of line was cut out of service until repairs could be made, but it is frequently impossible to determine the exact location of trouble as quickly as it was accomplished on that occasion.

Investigation revealed that 38 insulators carrying electric lines had been damaged by rifle fire. The failure of these damaged insulators caused the line to stop functioning.

Mr. Godlove pointed out that . . . [illegible text] . . . have extremely serious consequences. Not only were users of electric service in homes affected but hospitals, public buildings, industries, stores, etc. were also without power as a result. Mr. Godlove asked the cooperation of parents and others in impressing on youngsters the serious possibilities that can result from such unnecessary acts. He further stated that the responsibility for the recent shooting is being investigated.