Million Whys Press logo
Million Whys PressToronto
← Book 25 videos

Book 25, Question 60 · Video

What are the big green boxes at street corners?

Video · 1:50 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 25

These boxes hold equipment for the city's electric, phone, internet, or traffic-signal systems. They protect electronics from rain and snow and keep people safe from live wires. Some contain computers that control the traffic lights. Never climb on, open, or touch them. In many places, artists paint colorful pictures on them to brighten up the neighborhood.

Read the full answer →

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. What are the big green boxes at street corners?

The Big Idea

At many street corners, you will see big green metal boxes. What is inside them? Important equipment!

Inside

Step one: Inside. These boxes hold equipment for the city's electric, phone, internet, or traffic-signal systems. One box may serve hundreds of homes.

Protection

Step two: Protection. They protect electronics from rain and snow. They also keep people safe from live wires.

Traffic Brains

Step three: Traffic Brains. Some contain computers that control the traffic lights. Never climb on, open, or touch them.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Some hold power gear. Some hold internet gear. Some run traffic lights. Some are painted with art.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! One box may serve hundreds of homes. In many places, artists paint colorful pictures on them to brighten up the neighborhood. Never climb on the boxes. Boxes are kept locked.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up, look at a utility box near your home. Draw a picture of it. Do not touch it. Write what you think is inside. Design art you would paint on it.

Outro

The big green boxes at street corners hold equipment for electric, phone, internet, or traffic-signal systems, protecting it from weather and people from live wires. Never touch them. Science is amazing! Keep asking questions! The more you look around, the more wonders you will find, so keep your eyes open! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this