What to Do If You Encounter Downed Power Lines

Southern California Edison advises customers to beware of downed power lines, especially during high winds.
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Stories : Safety
Stay Away From Downed Wires Always assume all downed wires are LIVE and DANGEROUS. Don't approach or touch a downed wire or anyone or anything in contact with it. Stay at least 100 feet away. Call 911 and tell the operator it's an electrical emergency. Don't touch or step in water near a downed wire. Water conducts electricity and can be very dangerous. Warn people to stay away. Stay Inside the vehicle and call 911. If a wire comes down on or near your vehicle, don't drive over the wire. Call 911 and stay inside until utility workers tell you to exit. If you must get out due to fire or other danger, use a vehicle door that is free of anything in contact with the ground and take these steps: Jump clear without touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Don't fall back against the vehicle. Avoid any wires on the ground or sagging overhead. Land with your feet together and shuffle away with small steps. Do not return to the vehicle until utility personnel tell you it is safe.
Stories : Safety

What to Do If You Encounter Downed Power Lines

Southern California Edison advises customers to beware of downed power lines, especially during high winds.
Jennie Campos
Jennie Campos
ENERGIZED by Edison Writer
Contributors
Infographic: Lawrence Tsuei
Photo Credit: Roberto Lazarte
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Tags: downed power line safety, high winds, safety tips
Stay Away From Downed Wires Always assume all downed wires are LIVE and DANGEROUS. Don't approach or touch a downed wire or anyone or anything in contact with it. Stay at least 100 feet away. Call 911 and tell the operator it's an electrical emergency. Don't touch or step in water near a downed wire. Water conducts electricity and can be very dangerous. Warn people to stay away. Stay Inside the vehicle and call 911. If a wire comes down on or near your vehicle, don't drive over the wire. Call 911 and stay inside until utility workers tell you to exit. If you must get out due to fire or other danger, use a vehicle door that is free of anything in contact with the ground and take these steps: Jump clear without touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Don't fall back against the vehicle. Avoid any wires on the ground or sagging overhead. Land with your feet together and shuffle away with small steps. Do not return to the vehicle until utility personnel tell you it is safe.