Downed Power Lines
Downed power lines are no strange sight in Atlanta, Georgia. With all of our flash storms, unpredictable tree falls etc., they happen quite often. Fallen trees, high winds, bad storms, and even vehicle crashes can drop power lines. Power lines and electrocution cause a significant number of deaths in the US. Many tragic non-work related deaths occur yearly from downed power lines as well. Power lines are quite a bit more dangerous than most understand. Being aware of the danger and appropriate precautions can save your life!
Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to electrical safety in the home and workplace. They list several excellent precautionary tips that are crucial regarding downed power lines.
Precautions to take around downed lines:
- A power line can energize the ground up to 35 feet away!
- If you see a power line on the ground, immediately notify local authorities
- Never drive over power lines or through water that come into contact with them
- Never try to move a power line. Even using items that don’t conduct electricity are not safe
ESFI Recommends doing the following, to be safe around dangerous lines:
- Move away from the dangerous lines by shuffling your feet, keeping them on the ground. Lifting your feet, or separating them, can allow the electricity to arc from the ground and through your body!
- If your car is on down power lines, stay in it. Don’t touch any metal parts of your vehicle. It is a myth that rubber tires insulate the car from electricity. Use your cell phone to call for help. Honk the horn to capture people’s attention, yet refrain from calling them closer!
- To get out of the car, open the door without touching the metal
- Jump out, hitting the ground with both feet
- Shuffle to get away from the area
It is crucial to stay away from someone in contact with a downed power line until, and only until, the line is de-energized. Absolutely call 911. Perform CPR if necessary until the next level of care arrives.
Remember- your safety comes first!
Be prepared – Learn CPR and First Aid!