Storm Damage:
Helpful tips for Dealing with Downed Power Lines
Storms and heavy winds will cause downed power
lines in your area. If you come across one, always
assume that it is energized.
Stay away from storm debris before and
after the repairs are complete.
Do not cut up or burn power pole debris. It contains
preservative chemicals that may be very harmful.
The power company will remove & properly dispose
of the debris in an environmentally safe manner.
Move away from
the line and
anything
touching it.
(OR you COULD go
ahead and plan an
Emergency Room
getaway - like these
fine folks!)
• To move away from the
line, shuffle, taking small
steps, keeping your feet
together and on the
ground at all times. This
minimizes the chance for
a human path of electric
current, as electricity
moves from a high
voltage zone to a low
voltage zone. You don’t
want that current to arc and flow through your
body.
• Don’t touch another person who is in direct
or indirect contact with the downed line.
There will be two victims instead of one if
you do.
• Don’t try to move
the line or
anything near
the line with
another object (a
broom or stick).
Even dry wood
can conduct
current.
• Don’t put your feet in water
near the downed power line.
• If your car comes
into contact with
the line, stay in
your car. Call for
help using your
cell phone or
honk your horn.
Keep others
away from your
car.
• If your car is in
contact with the
downed line and is on
fire so you must leave
it, jump out with both
feet together and
avoid contact with the
car and the ground at
the same time.
Shuffle away from the
car.
• Don’t ever knowingly drive over downed
lines (or fire hoses for that matter).
STAY ALERT!
STAY AWAY!
STAY ALIVE!
To take the Online Safety Quiz,
go to eServices, CAP Online
Safety Briefings