Safety Corner: Safe Driving Around Downed Power Poles & Electric Lines

With winter weather here to stay, it’s important to remember to stay safe out on the roads. Here are some tips to remember about what should happen if your car contacts a power pole.

Here’s what to do in a car accident with a power pole, pad-mounted transformer, or other electrical equipment:

• Do not get out of the vehicle or cab unless there is smoke or a fire. Instead, call 911 and wait for utility crews to come and de-energize power.
• If you must exit, make a clean jump or hop from your car or truck (without touching it).
• Then hop with your feet together or shuffle keeping your feet on the ground until you are at least 30 feet away.
• If you see an accident that involves a downed power line, do not approach the scene. Instead, call 911 for help and relay this helpful safety information to others nearby.
• For more information about electrical safety, view our safety tips here.