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PlatypusTrapper t1_j9gehj7 wrote

I swapped a breaker on a panel that didn’t have a main breaker once so I had to do it live.

My heart-rate at least doubled while I was doing it.

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schmag t1_j9gqi1o wrote

its really only "scary" the first time, shouldn't really be then.

as with anything potentially dangerous/deadly.

you should understand what you are doing and why you are doing it and how it ensures your safety. if it still seems unsafe, maybe it is and you should consult a pro.

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PlatypusTrapper t1_j9gvmli wrote

It was a safe as I could make it but that doesn’t mean it was “safe.” Still working on live wires. Actually in that case they weren’t even protected by a breaker, just what’s coming out of the transformer.

I’ve accidentally snipped a live wire but at least in that case it was protected by a breaker. When you’re dealing with actual unprotected circuits… I don’t think the dread feeling ever goes away.

Working on a car is also kind of nerve wracking no matter how many times I’ve done it. I’m putting all of my faith into jack stands and I need to exert a great amount of torque under the car. It’s not as unsafe as it used to be back in the day (scissor jacks used to be known as widow-makers).

So I don’t agree with you. It’s more important to have a healthy fear of possible dangers and still do everything in your power to protect yourself than it is to get over that fear. When I feel comfortable doing something is when I make more mistakes (like when I snipped a live wire).

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schmag t1_j9jv1h8 wrote

the big thing for me anymore is ladders.. I don't like them, I don't like working on them.

I am always on a 6' fiberglass step ladder, but much beyond that I don't care for.

I still do it when I have to, but I haven't been able to shake the uncomfortable feeling when being anything much over 6-8' it lessens as I spend more time, but quickly returns the next time.

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