What To Do Around Downed Power Lines

Downed power lines can be deadly. ALWAYS assume a downed power line is live and avoid going near it or anything in contact with it.

Use Precaution:

*Downed power lines can energize the ground up to 35 feet away
*If you see a downed power line, immediately notify local authorities. Follow links for National Grid or NYSEG.
*Never drive over downed power lines or through water that is in contact with them
*Never try to move a downed power line. Even using items that typically are not conductive will not prevent injury or death

Know What to Do:

• The safe way to move away from a downed power line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times
• If your car comes in contact with a downed power line while you are inside, stay in the car. Do not touch any part of the car’s frame or any other metal. Use a cell phone or honk your horn to summon help. Allow only rescue personnel to approach the car
• If your car is in contact with a downed power line and you must exit due to fire or another imminent threat:
• Do not touch your vehicle and the ground at the same time with any part of your body or clothing
• Open the door to your vehicle without touching the metal door frame
• Jump out of the vehicle with both feet together and so both feet land at the same time
• Shuffle away so that the toe of one foot shuffles forward along the length of the other foot, ensuring that both feet are in constant contact and always touching the ground
• If someone comes in contact with a downed power line or something else that has become electrified, call 911 immediately
• Never touch someone who has come in contact with a power line. They are energized and pose a danger to anyone who comes in contact with them
• Remember power lines don’t have to fall to be dangerous. Always call 811 before you dig and keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet from overhead power lines.

Get up to information on power outages throughout Central New York; where it’s out and when it’ll be restored with National Grid’s Power Outage Map.

National Grid also offers text alerts on the latest efforts to restore power.

To receive free text message alerts and updates, text the word STORM to NGRID (64743). E-mail alerts are available to customers who create an online profile on the company’s website. All alert services can be started and stopped at the customer’s request.

You can even report power outages or get the latest information at National Grid’s website.

Power Outage Preparation:

*Keep your cell phone charged and make sure you know where your backup power supply is.

*Make sure all your flashlights have fresh batteries.

*Fill your gas tank. You can use your car to keep warm and recharge devices.

*Have some food available that you don’t need to cook.

* Download The Eagle App. You’ll receive local alerts, weather reports and more with push notification.

[Electrical Safety Foundation International]