Power lines crisscross our countryside, bringing the benefits of electricity. But storms or accidents can knock them from their perch and put them on the ground or within reach. Just because they’re down doesn’t mean they’re dead.
Keeping your distance from downed power lines and knowing what to do if you see one are the first steps to safety. There is no way of knowing whether a power line is still live, and if you happen to touch one that is, consequences could be deadly.
If you see a downed power line, the first step is to move away from it and anything touching it. Keep a distance of 35 feet because the ground around downed power lines may be energized. But if you are in a car, the first step is to stay put.
If power lines fall on the car, the car can become energized. People who are safe inside will remain safe — as long as they stay put. Opening a door and stepping out can kill the person leaving the car. Even if power lines are not on the vehicle, they could be hanging low. Fallen power lines are hard to see against trees and foliage, especially at night. Anyone stepping from a car might walk into an energized line and also be electrocuted.
Here are some other basic tips for safety:
P.O. Box 349
Liberty, IN 47353
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday
765-458-5171 and
800-529-5557