Power Line Safety
Overhead lines operate at several thousand volts; keep your distance! Always assume a downed power line is energized and stay away. A power line doesn't have to be sparking or sizzling to be energized; so never approach one. Here are some additional tips to keep you and your family safe.
- Remember the 10-foot rule: When carrying and using ladders and other long tools, keep them at least 10 feet away from all overhead lines - including any lines from the power pole to your home.
- Look up before raising a ladder or pole to verify that it will not be close to power lines when raised. Use a flashlight or lantern at night to help you see overhead power lines or other hazards.
- Don’t let children climb trees that are near overhead power lines.
- Kites or balloons that contact power lines can cause shock or fire, so fly them away from overhead lines.
- Central will trim trees near its power lines. Call us before pruning, trimming or cutting down trees that are near overhead lines.
General facts about electricity
- Electricity always seeks a path to the ground. When you become part of this path, you may be injured or killed.
- Good conductors include water, your body, tree branches, poles and ladders.
General power line safety tips
- Assume all utility lines are energized.
- Never touch any utility wire, and do not touch anyone who is in contact with an electric wire.
Fallen lines around or on your home
- If you see a fallen line, fallen tree limbs, as well as anything they are touching-such as puddles and fences, stay far away.
- Keep pets and children away too.
- If there is a fallen power line near your home, stay inside unless told by emergency personnel to evacuate.
- Call 911.
Fallen lines around or on your vehicle
- Move the vehicle away from the line if you can do it safely.
- Warn others to stay away; anyone on the ground who touches your vehicle could be in danger.
- If the vehicle is okay (not on fire), stay in the vehicle until an emergency responder indicates it is safe to get out.
- If you must leave due to other hazards, jump clear of of the vehicle and the fallen lines. Don’t touch the vehicle and ground at the same time.
- Call 911.