# OF FEET GROUND CAN BE ENERGIZED AROUND A DOWNED LINE
# TO CALL IF YOU SEE A DOWNED POWER LINE
% OF DOWNED LINES YOU SHOULD ASSUME ARE LIVE

Downed power lines can be deadly.

ALWAYS assume a downed power line is live and avoid going near it. DO NOT touch anything in contact with it.

  • Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away.
  • If you see a downed power line, immediately notify the local authorities.
  • Never drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them.
  • Never try to move a downed power line. Even using items that typically are not conductive will not prevent injury or death.
  • The safe way to move away from a downed power line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times.

If your car comes in contact with a downed power line while you are inside, stay in the car. Do not touch any part of the car’s frame or any other metal. Use a cell phone or honk your horn to summon help. Allow only rescue personnel to approach the car.

If you must exit your car due to a fire or another imminent threat:

  • Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time with any part of your body or clothing.
  • Open the door to your vehicle without touching the metal door frame.
  • Jump out of the vehicle with both feet together and so both feet land at the same time.
  • Shuffle away so that the toe of one foot shuffles forward along the length of the other foot, ensuring that both feet are in constant contact and always touching the ground.