August 10, 2022 – If you take the time to look up, you’ll notice that overhead power lines are everywhere. Practicing caution around these lines is the responsibility of everyone. When it comes to being safe around overhead power lines, it is essential to:
- Look up to locate all overhead power lines.
- Stay at least 10 feet away from any overhead power lines.
- Never touch anything that comes into contact with a power line.
- Always carry ladders or tall equipment horizontally. It is smart to use wooden or fiberglass ladders outdoors since metal ladders conduct electricity, but remember, even wood can conduct electricity if it is even somewhat wet.
- Never climb trees near power lines.
- Never fly kites, remote control airplanes, drones or balloons around power lines.
If you see a downed line, stay away! It is best to always assume that a downed power line is live and could be deadly. If you see a downed power line:
- Call 911.
- Never try to move a downed line.
- Never drive over or near a downed power line or anything in contact with them. Downed lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away! This distance can increase in wet conditions.
Visit lcec.net for more ways to be safe around overhead power lines and electricity.