Canadian Electricity Industry Condemns

The Canadian Electricity Association expressed serious concerns regarding the scheduled airing of "Fear Factor" on Global Television January 31, which features a stunt in which participants stand at a high-voltage electrical substation and receive "minor" nuisance shocks.

"It is important for viewers to know that there is no such thing as a "nuisance shock", warned Hans Konow, CEA President and CEO. "Tonight's broadcast will blur the line between fantasy and reality in ways that could have disastrous consequences, including perhaps even the electrocution of unsuspecting "Fear Factor" fans."

In the real world, a substation is a crucial part of the electricity infrastructure containing lethal currents of electricity; it is not a prop or backdrop for a reality TV show. Based on the "sneak preview", adds Mr. Konow, we are very concerned the segment may cause viewers to fail to appreciate the seriousness and potential lethal danger of electric power facilities.

Unfortunately, tonight's segment on "Fear Factor" may encourage an unsuspecting child or young adult to attempt a copycat prank, points out the CEA.