Understand The Risks Of Downed Power Lines

When you see power lines on the ground, stay away, warn others to stay away, and contact us or local emergency services. Lines do not have to be arcing or sparking to be live. Any utility wire, including telephone or cable lines, could be in contact with an energized power line making them very dangerous. So stay away from all of them!

Be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or debris may hide an electrical hazard. A downed power line can energize things around it.

Keep in mind a line that is indeed “dead” could become energized during power restoration efforts or improper use of generators. Keep reading this issue for tips on ensuring your generator is hooked up and used properly.

If you are driving and come upon a downed power line, stay in your vehicle, warn others to stay away, and contact us or emergency personnel. Never drive over a downed line. It could cause poles or other equipment to come into contact with your vehicle.

If you are in a car that has come in contact with a downed power line, stay in your vehicle if safe. Wait until your co-op or emergency personnel have arrived and de-energized the line. Warn others not to approach the car. If you must leave your vehicle, only in the case of fire, jump free from the car and hop away from it with both feet together or move by sliding your feet with continuous contact on the ground.

See a downed line? Here’s what to do:

• Stay back at least 10 feet!
• Always treat any downed line as potentially energized.
• Check that it’s on our lines at www.pvrea.coop/service-territory.
• Report it, even after-hours, at 800.432.1012.
• Or report it by calling 911.
• We’ll dispatch a crew to investigate.