Powerline Safety

Shock Hazards

There are many potential shock hazards between the generation and use of electricity. Overhead power lines are located high off the ground for safety, have no insulation and can carry more than 500,000 volts. Substations and transformers contain "live" parts that are dangerous to contact. Underground power lines are well-insulated, but a shovel can damage them and create a shock hazard.

Why electricity can be dangerous

Electricity always seeks the shortest path to the ground. It tries to find a conductor, or something that it can pass through to get to the ground, like metal, wet wood, or water. Your body is about 70 percent water, so that makes you a good conductor, too. For example, if you touch an energized bare wire or faulty appliance while your feet are touching the ground, electricity will automatically pass through you to the ground, causing a harmful or even fatal shock.

Downed Lines

An ice storm, windstorm, tornado, forest fire or flood can bring down power lines. A car accident also may snap a utility pole and drop a power line. If you see a downed power line, or any other wire, don't assume that it is insulated or “dead”. Stay at least 30 feet away from the wire and secure the area to keep others away, too. Remember that electricity can pass from an energized source through a victim. If a rescuer touches the victim, the rescuer also can become a victim.

How much is too much?

It doesn't take much to get hurt or killed from even a small amount of electricity. The current from a 7.5 watt Christmas tree bulb can kill you in a fraction of a second if its current passes through your chest. So the best thing you can do is be aware of the dangers of electricity and learn how to avoid them.

When working outdoors, please be aware of the dangers of working near overhead power lines. Keep ladders and other equipment at least 10 feet away at all times. If you see a downed line, keep everyone away and call us immediately at our emergency number.

Electric Safety Tips

• Keep yourself, your co-workers, friends, family and vehicles at least 10 feet away from residential electric lines and equipment.
• Stay alert. Keep ladders at least 10 feet away from power lines when carrying, moving, and raising them.
• Keep away from wires when working with tools, pipe, lumber or siding — all of which can conduct electricity.
• Also, be careful when you install or remove an antenna or work on a roof. Electrical wires could be above or below when working on a roof.
• Make sure the area is clear of wires before working near trees or shrubs.
• Never attach or tie anything off to power lines or electrical equipment.
• To further ensure your safety, consider all lines "energized" and put an effective ground on all equipment working near overhead electric lines.
• Be aware of nearby power lines the next time you prune trees or clean a pool.
• Keep kites, model airplanes, fishing poles, boats on trailers, sailboat masts, hang gliders, and parachutes away from power lines, as they can lead to dangerous or even tragic situations.