The transmission and distribution of power is safe and reliable much of the time. However, storms, critters, and car accidents can damage energized utility equipment such as power lines, poles, and padmount transformers (green boxes). Not only can this cause minor inconveniences, like service interruptions and road closures, it can also create life-threatening situations when electricity invisibly spreads like ripples on a pond.
Here is what can occur when utility equipment is damaged.
- Step potential happens when a person walks from one voltage "ripple" to another and their feet experience a difference in voltage.
- Touch potential happens when someone touches something at one voltage and steps on or contacts something else at a different voltage.
Both types of potential can cause serious internal and external injuries and death, since electric current enters the body at one point and exits at another.
How to stay safe
Take precautions near downed power lines, poles, or other damaged power equipment. Always assume damaged power equipment is energized; it can look lifeless and harmless and still be live.
Do not approach or touch downed power lines or damaged power equipment. Call 9-1-1 to report the emergency. Keep others away from the scene.
Besides accidents, storms, and animal interferences, another hazardous situation may occur when vehicles, equipment, or extensions get too close to or come in contact with power equipment. To stay safe around damaged utility equipment, do the following.
- Stay inside your vehicle or cab.
- Call 9-1-1.
- Report damaged power equipment to a dispatcher.
- Only exit if you see smoke or there is a fire.
If you must exit due to a fire, carefully do the following.
- Cross your arms and make a clean jump out.
- Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
- Make solid hops with your feet together as far away as you can.
- If you are unable to hop, shuffle away without lifting your feet.
- Do not return to the vehicle.
If you are near the scene:
- Do not approach the scene to help.
- Stay at least 50 feet away.
- Do not lean on or touch anything.
REMEMBER
Never approach a downed power line or pole or a damaged padmount transformer. Leave repairs to trained electrical lineworkers.
For more information about electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org .
Article courtesy of SafeElectricity.org with modifications by Valley Rural Electric Cooperative. Photo of Valley REC utility truck beside broken pole and downed power lines by Doug Roles.