Deep Dive: T0B09
The correct answer is C: The antenna could contact high-voltage power lines. You should avoid attaching an antenna to a utility pole because the antenna could contact high-voltage power lines. Utility poles carry high-voltage power lines that can kill if contacted. Antennas on utility poles are extremely dangerous and illegal in most areas. For amateur radio operators, this is a critical safety rule. Never attach antennas to utility poles - use your own support structure instead.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Induced voltages aren't the main concern - the real danger is direct contact with high-voltage lines, which can kill. Option B: Incorrect. 60 Hz radiation from feed lines isn't a real issue - the danger is power line contact, not feed line radiation. Option D: Incorrect. Since A and B are not the primary concerns, 'all of the above' cannot be correct. The critical danger is power line contact.
Exam Tip
Don't attach antenna to utility pole = could contact power lines. Think 'P'ower 'L'ines = 'P'otentially 'L'ethal. Utility poles carry high-voltage lines that can kill. Most critical safety concern. Not about induced voltages or feed line radiation.
Memory Aid
Don't attach antenna to utility pole = could contact power lines. Think 'P'ower 'L'ines = 'P'otentially 'L'ethal. Utility poles carry high-voltage lines - contact can kill. Never attach antennas to utility poles.
Real-World Example
You consider attaching your antenna to a utility pole because it's tall and convenient. This is extremely dangerous - the antenna or feed line could contact the high-voltage power lines on the pole, causing electrocution. Utility poles are for utility companies only - never attach amateur antennas to them. Use your own tower or mast instead.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T0B
Reference: 2022-2026 Question Pool · T0 - Safety
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T0B topic.