A downed power line may be very much alive and could cause serious injury or even death.
Assume all power lines are energized and dangerous. Lines that are de-energized could become energized at any time. Never touch a downed power line—and never touch a person or object that is touching a power line. Follow these tips to stay safe around a downed power line:
- Immediately report a downed power line to Canby Utility and call 911.
- If you see someone who has been shocked and is in direct or indirect contact with a downed power line, do not touch the person. Efforts to pull an electric shock victim away could make you a second victim. Warn others to stay away.
- If a power line falls across or near your vehicle while you are in it, stay inside until help arrives. If you must exit, jump clear so no part of your body is touching the car when you land. Keep both feet together and shuffle or hop until you are at least 30 feet away from the vehicle.
- Do not attempt to move tree limbs that are on or near a power line.
- When barricades or safety perimeters are set up by the utility or first responders, respect the boundaries for everyone’s safety—do not go around the crew/workers or the boundaries.