Is it dangerous to drive over power lines?
Never drive over a downed line. It could cause poles or other equipment to come crashing down. If you are in a car that has come in contact with a downed power line, stay in your vehicle. If you must leave your car, only in the case of fire, jump free from the car and hop away from it with both feet together.
What happens if a car hits a power line?
Call 911. When you do, let the dispatcher know you were in a vehicle accident and there’s a downed power line on your vehicle. If anyone begins to approach your vehicle, or tries to help you, warn them to stay at least 20 feet away from the power line and anything it may touch.
Can you get electrocuted driving over power lines?
If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line, you’re in extreme danger: Your vehicle, and the ground around you, is now energized and can electrocute you.
How do you tell if a power line is live?
You can’t tell by looking whether a line is “live” or “hot” or not. Even if a downed line isn’t actively sparking, always assume it is carrying electricity. Stay at least 30 feet away from any downed power line, and don’t go near the pole or anything touching the line.
Can a human hang from a power line?
If you are hanging from high voltage lines (tens of thousands, not hundreds), touching even a wood pole at the same time as the power line may kill you, unless the wood is extremely dry.
Who is responsible for low hanging power lines?
electric utility company
The electric utility company that owns the power lines is responsible for low hanging power lines.
Why do birds not get electrocuted on power lines?
Birds can sit on power lines and not get electric shocks because the electricity is always looking for a way to get to the ground. The birds are not touching the ground or anything in contact with the ground, so the electricity will stay in the power line.
What to do if a power line falls near you?
Avoid touching anything, such as a car, object or equipment, or anyone who is in contact with a fallen power line. Keep children and pets away from fallen electric lines. Avoid driving over a fallen power line. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report a fallen power line.
Why can birds sit on power lines and not humans?
What can I do about low hanging power lines?
Any time you have a safety concern about sagging or downed lines, it is best to contact the utility company or call 9-1-1. When calling or writing the utility company who is responsible for the low hanging power lines, make notes of every phone contact, and keep copies of all written communications.
How do I report a low hanging power line?
Report fallen powerlines Call our Emergency Line on 13 13 88 if you see any of the following: fallen or arcing powerlines. dangerous leaning or fallen poles.
Why do squirrels not get electrocuted on power lines?
The answer lies in the way electricity travels. That’s safe enough because the air itself acts as an insulator: the electricity won’t spark off into the space around lines. But since the lines are uninsulated that means that squirrels running on these lines are coming into direct contact with the flow of electricity.
What to do if your car hits a power line?
If your vehicle contacts a power line, remain inside and call for help. Wait in the car until electrical workers arrive and give the all-clear. Warn onlookers to stay clear and tell them the ground could be electrified.
What happens when a car hits a power pole?
Each year, countless vehicles crash into utility poles and other electrical equipment across the energy grid. This usually causes power lines to come down – not only knocking out power to nearby homes and businesses – but also putting lives at risk.
What to do if a wire falls on your car?
You can then slowly drive away from the scene if you can determine that you’ll be able to avoid going over the downed wire. But if driving away means the pole will fall on you or the power line is compromised, stay in the car until the power company arrives and a utility worker tells you it’s OK to step out.
What happens if you touch a power line?
If the ground is wet, voltages remain high over greater distances. Anyone in the hot zone can get a fatal shock. This could happen, for example, by touching an energized source with your hand while your feet are on the ground, or simply walking on electrified ground.