Broken snapped wooden power line post with electrical components on the ground after a storm

Downed and Dangerous Power Lines

Downed Power Line

Downed power lines can be energized and deadly. Know what to do when you encounter a downed power line. It can save your life. 

DO

  • Immediately call 911 to report any downed power lines, and then notify Great Lakes Energy at 888-485-2537. 
  • Stay at least 35 feet or more away from any downed power line. Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away, even further in wet conditions.
  • Shuffle away from downed power lines with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. Avoid lifting your feet.
  • If someone comes in contact with a downed power line or something else that has become electrified, call 911 immediately.

DON’T

  • Don’t touch a downed power line. Always assume downed power lines are energized and dangerous.
  • Don’t attempt to move the line. Even using items that typically are not conductive will not prevent injury or death.
  • Don’t drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them.
  • Don’t run. Shuffle away, with both feet on the ground, to a safe distance.
  • Don’t touch fences, guardrails, vehicles, or anything else in contact with downed power lines. They can be energized and pose a hazard.
  • Don’t touch someone who has come in contact with a power line. The person is energized and poses a danger to anyone who comes in contact with them.

If your car is in contact with a downed power line while you are inside the vehicle:

  • Do stay in the car.
  • Do not touch any part of the car’s frame or any other metal.
  • Use a cell phone or honk your horn to summon help. Allow only rescue personnel to approach the car.

If you must exit the car due to fire or other imminent threats:

  • Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time with any part of your body or clothing.
  • Open the door to your vehicle without touching the metal door frame.
  • Jump out of the vehicle with both feet together so both feet land at the same time.
  • Shuffle away, so the toe of one foot shuffles forward along the length of the other foot, ensuring that both feet are in constant contact and always touching the ground.

Source: www.esfi.org

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