This rotation of a magnet within a coil of copper is at the heart of every electric generator. At every step of the way, from generation to transmission to the line that serves your home or business, PGE's system is designed to ensure electric safety. If you become part of that path to ground, you are in danger. Electricity travels best through conductors . The best conductors are metal, like copper and aluminum.
Water is an excellent conductor.
People are good conductors. High and low voltage electricity can cause serious injury or death. The overhead wires you typically see on city streets and neighborhoods at the top of the poles are usually bare wire. Insulation can wear off. Back to Top 2001 Portland General Electric.