eli5 why do people get electrocuted by live overhead power lines but not 240v extension cables ?

Question

Why can’t they just make the insulation thicker on overhead power lines ?

In: 1

Answer 1

Overhead power lines have yards of insulation, that’s why they are up high this much. The insulation is clear and cut through very easily, it’s called air. Replacing that air with plastic or rubber would make those cables prohibitively heavy.

LPT: don’t touch overhead cables.