When it comes to downed power lines, your safety is our first concern.
Never touch a downed power line or anything it may be touching. Treat every downed line as though it were energized or capable of causing you harmful electric shock. Even a line that is not sparking or sizzling may be energized.
If you see a downed power line
STOP. There's no way to know if a downed line is energized, so play it safe—assume it is live. Stay at least 50 feet away (about the length of a school bus).
OBSERVE. Carefully observe the area. Downed lines can energize the ground and nearby objects, and electricity from the line can travel through water puddles. Stay at least 50 feet away from anything that could be energized, and instruct others to stay away.
SURVIVE. Call 911 to report a downed power line then call EWEB's outage reporting line at 1-844-484-2300 to report the downed line. NEVER approach or attempt to move a line under any circumstances.
If you see someone touching a power line, don't touch him or her; you may become a victim, too. Call 911 immediately.
If a power line falls across your car, try to drive clear. If that fails, stay in the car. If you must get out because of imminent danger, such as fire, be sure to leap clear so you don't touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
If you see repair crews working on downed power lines, please drive carefully. Expect delays and use caution when driving near any repair crews working to restore your power.
Stay 50 feet away - Call 911
If you see a downed power line - assume it is energized.
Stay at least 50 feet away from the line or anything the line could be touching, such as a fence, water puddle, car, or tree.
For reference, 50 feet is about the length of an average school bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a line falls on my vehicle?
If your vehicle is in contact with a power line or other electrical equipment:
- Move the vehicle away from the line or equipment if you can do so safely.
- If the vehicle cannot be moved, stay inside until electric utility workers notify you it is safe to exit.
- Call 911 immediately to report the emergency.
- Warn others to stay at least 50 feet away.
- If you must exit the vehicle due to a fire or other imminent danger, do NOT touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Jump clear, land with your feet together and shuffle at least 50 feet away while keeping your feet close together and on the ground at all times. Do not return to the vehicle.
What should I do if I am unsure if the downed wire carries electricity or if it is a cable or phone wire?
Treat all lines as energized and dangerous. Stay at least 50 feet away and call 911 immediately.
What should I do if a downed power line is blocking my path?
Treat all lines as energized and dangerous. Stay at least 50 feet away and call 911 immediately. Never approach, touch, or drive over a downed line. Warn others to stay away as well.
What should I do if I see a tree that could damage a wire?
If you believe a tree is growing too close to one of our power lines, we can assess the situation and determine if the tree needs attention before the next scheduled trimming. Learn more.
How can I request a line safety demonstration?
EWEB has electricity demonstration tools to help us educate others about appropriate line safety for schools, first responders, construction workers, and the community. Request a presentation by....
Educational Resources
Download these helpful electric safety resources.
Downed Line Safety Handout (Coming Soon)
Electric Safety Vocabulary (Coming Soon)
Kid's Electric Safety Activity Book (Coming Soon)
Video Resources
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