Most utility lines are not insulated, which means the wires are bare. Most utility lines are not insulated, either because they were installed without insulation or because it has worn off due to exposure to weather. If a bird can sit on a power line, then the line is insulated and safe to come in contact with.
Humans often die when they touch overhead lines.
When person is in contact with the earth and the wire at the same time, a channel for electricity is created. Birds and squirrels usually only touch the wire. A transfer switch removes the farm's electrical system from the power company's utility lines. Always use the transfer switch whenever your standby generator is in operation, such as during a power failure. This protects power company workers from electrocution by the power from your generator entering their lines.