Had an unpleasant experience a few days ago involving things unelectrical in panels. I was shutting off power at a barn fire - I turned off the disco (an ancient 100a. SqD safety switch), and, as is my usual custom, opened the cover to be sure that all the hot legs had operated (I'm sure many of you have seen switches in such decrepit condition that the contact arm insulators have rotted away). The bottom of the switch box was occupied by a large rattlesnake, who was not at all pleased with the intrusion. Fearing snakes as much as I do (even while wearing a heavy turnout coat and gloves), I slammed the box shut and ran. After a few moments, I returned and found the head of the snake on the ground. Opening the box revealed the remainder of said snake, writhing about.

My volunteer fire department doesn't pay me enough for this [Linked Image]. I think I'll give up this part of firefighting and go back to being a chauffer/engineer.

Mike (mamills)