What is essential for ensuring safe installation of overhead service drops?

Adhering to local codes and maintaining proper clearance is essential for ensuring a safe installation of overhead service drops because these codes are developed based on safety standards that account for environmental factors, electrical loads, and potential hazards. Local codes provide guidelines on the required height and clearance of overhead service drops, which minimizes the risk of accidental contact with vehicles, trees, and other objects. This clearance is critical for preventing electrical hazards and ensuring the safety of both the property and individuals in the area.

While using insulated conductors is important for protecting against electric shock, it does not address the broader safety measures that local codes encompass. Similarly, installing grounding rods is a vital safety practice to protect against electrical faults but is only one part of the overall installation. Minimizing the length of the overhead drop might be practical in some contexts, but it does not inherently contribute to the safety or compliance with regulations. Thus, following local codes and ensuring proper clearances serves as the foundational safety measure in the installation process.