AS the fishing season gets under way, anglers across the region are being warned not to risk casting their lives away by striking overhead power lines.

Many fishing rods, poles and lines will conduct electricity, especially those containing carbon fibre and at higher voltages power can jump through the air without any contact.

"Electricity and fishing can add up to a highly dangerous combination," warned the Country Land and Business Association's Yorkshire regional director Dorothy Fairburn.

"Sometimes, lines on wood poles are mistaken for telephone wires.

"Overhead electricity lines are often difficult to see, especially if set against a dark background.

"Anglers need to look out and look up for overhead lines when approaching the fishing area and keep at least 30 metres away."

The association is telling those of its members who own or lease fishing waters to do their best to ensure that anglers are made aware of the dangers by erecting safety signs, which are normally available free of charge from the electricity company.