Coming across a downed power line can be a scary situation, but staying calm and knowing what to do can keep you and others safe.
1. Stay Far Away:
Always assume a downed power line is live and dangerous, even if it doesn’t spark or hum. Keep at least 30 feet (about the length of a school bus) between you and the line. Electricity can travel through the ground, so distance is your best friend.
2. Don’t Touch Anything Nearby:
If a power line has fallen on a car, fence, tree, or puddle, avoid touching those objects. Electricity can spread through them, and you could be injured if you get too close.
3. Warn Others:
If you see someone approaching the area, calmly warn them to stay far away. It’s always better to be cautious and keep everyone safe.
4. Who to Call for Help:
Dial 911 or your local utility company immediately to report the downed line. Provide as much detail as you can about the location and what you see. Let the professionals handle it, they’re trained for situations like this.
5. If You’re in a Car:
If a power line falls on your car while you’re inside, stay put! Do not get out unless the car is on fire. If you must exit, jump clear of the car without touching it and the ground at the same time, then shuffle away with your feet close together.
Remember, your safety and the safety of others is the top priority. By staying calm, keeping your distance, and calling for help, you’re doing the right thing. It’s always better to be cautious around electricity, it’s powerful stuff!
Frequently Asked Questions About Downed Power Lines
Can I drive over a downed power line?
Downed power lines can be live, meaning they’re carrying electricity. If you drive over one, your vehicle could become energized, and the electricity could travel through the tires (even if they’re rubber) or the ground, putting you in harm’s way. Additionally, the line could get tangled in your vehicle, making the situation even more hazardous.
How long does it take to fix a downed power line?
How can I tell if a downed power line is live?
1. No Visible Signs Don’t Mean It’s Safe:
A live power line might not spark or make noise, especially if it’s still connected to the power source. Even if it looks harmless, it can still carry enough electricity to cause serious injury or death.
2. Stay Far Away:
The safest rule is to stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power line. Electricity can travel through the ground or nearby objects, so distance is critical.
3. Look for Warning Signs:
If you see sparks, flickering lights, or hear a buzzing or crackling sound, these are clear indicators that the line is live. However, don’t rely on these signs alone—always treat a downed line as dangerous.
4. Call for Help:
If you see a downed power line, call 911 or your local utility company immediately. Let trained professionals handle the situation—they have the tools and expertise to assess and repair it safely.
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.