Overhead Power Line Awareness

Look Up

Overhead power lines carry thousands of volts of electricity. Accidental contact with one of these wires may result in serious injury or death. Almost all of these accidents can be avoided with greater awareness of the location of power lines and electrical equipment.

• Always know the height of your equipment/vehicles including antennas and stacks, and the load.
• Whether on the job or working on an outdoor project at home, look around to identify where overhead power lines are located.
• Individuals and equipment should be at least 10 feet away from any overhead power line.
• Don’t touch anything that is in contact with power lines.  
• When carrying long equipment and tools, make sure they are carried horizontally to avoid possible contact with an overhead power line.

Utility Pole Crash

Any vehicle crash with overhead powerlines is a life-threatening situation. Always assume the electrical lines and equipment are energized and follow these actions to help keep yourself safe from electricity.

• If you come across a scene where someone has crashed into a utility pole never attempt to get close to the downed power line or attempt to drive over it.
• If you are the one that was involved in the crash a utility pole or downed power line assume the line and is live and the vehicle could be energized and extremely dangerous.
  • Stay in the vehicle and call 911.
  • Warn others to stay back 35 feet.
  • If you see smoke or fire, you will need to exit the vehicle immediately.
    • When exiting the vehicle, jump out and land with both feet together. Make sure you are not touching the ground and the vehicle at the same time. If you land on the ground while touching the vehicle or your feet are separated too far apart, you could become an open circuit and be electrocuted.
    • Once landed don’t pick your feet up off the ground, shuffle slowly with both feet close together until you are at least 35 feet away from the vehicle. If conditions are wet you may need to move even further.

Safety Tips to Follow Around Power Lines

• Keep a safe distance from power lines.
• Never climb trees or structures near power lines.
• If you see a person or vehicle in contact with a power line, do NOT approach them. Call 911.
• Always assume a power line is energized.
• Never touch a downed power line or anything thing in contact with a power line. Stay back at least 35 feet and notify your cooperative.

To Avoid Accidents, Always Look Up in All Ways

Sources: : https://www.esfi.org/

https://www.kemelectric.com/power-line-safety-tips

https://illumination.duke-energy.com/articles/a-hard-lesson-on-downed-power-lines