Nearly everyone knows not to touch a downed power line, but you might not know that you don’t have to touch a power line to be in danger. High-voltage electricity can jump to anyone who gets too close.
Anytime you’re working or playing outside, stay at least 10 feet away from power lines and their connections. If you come across a downed line, keep these tips in mind.
If you see a downed power line, move away from it and anything touching it. The ground around fallen power lines—up to 35 feet away in all directions—may be energized.
You cannot tell whether a power line is energized just by looking at it. Assume that all downed lines are live.
The proper way to move away from a fallen power line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.
If you see someone who’s in direct or indirect contact with a downed line, do not touch the person. You could become the next victim. Call 911 for help.
Do not attempt to move a downed power line or anything in contact with it. Even less conductive materials like wood or cloth can conduct electricity if even slightly wet.
Be careful not to touch or step in water near a downed power line.
Do not drive over downed power lines.
If your vehicle comes into contact with a downed power line while you are inside, stay in the vehicle. Honk your horn to summon help, but direct others to stay away. Call 911.
If you must leave your vehicle because it’s on fire, jump out of it with both feet together and try not to make contact with the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Then shuffle away from the vehicle.
Posted: 8/7/2023 9:49:43 AM
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