How do I make power lines safer?

How do I make power lines safer?

Safety tips Electricity can jump from power lines to nearby tools and ladders. When working outside, look up and stay away! Keep yourself and equipment at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. If you see a tree growing close to a power line, don’t try to trim it yourself.

Can I touch power lines?

Misconception #2: Power lines are insulated, so they’re safe to touch. This is a common misconception that many people have about power lines. Power lines are not insulated and you should always avoid contact with them. It is quite possible for people to get electrocuted if you touch power lines.

Can a downed power line electrocute you?

If you encounter a downed power line while walking… Always assume the line is “energized,” meaning it can electrocute you. Touching a powerline can easily injure or kill you if an electrical current is running through it.

Who do you call about downed wires?

Report any downed power lines immediately by calling the LADWP at 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397). If you or someone else is in danger, call 911. Allow access for uniformed LADWP crews, all of whom carry Department-issued identification cards, so they may service infrastructure in need of repair.

How long does it take to fix a downed power line?

A distribution fuse can take a few minutes to repair; a distribution transformer can take a couple of hours to replace; but widespread damage to the transmission system can take days, weeks, or even months to repair.

How far should you stay away from a downed powerline?

Keep Clear of Downed Power Lines You should never touch a downed power line, even with a non-conductive object like a wooden stick. It’s best to stay at least 15 yards away from a downed power line, because the ground may be electrified.

What happens if you run over a downed power line?

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 is a safe distance from downed power lines?

Keep yourself and all vehicles and equipment at least 30 feet away from any downed distribution line and at least 100 feet away from downed transmission lines. Do NOT rescue anyone in proximity to a downed power line until the National Grid representative confirms the line has been de-energized.

What happens if you touch a downed power line?

Never Touch a Downed Power Line When a live wire touches the ground, electricity fans out through the ground, similar to when a pebble hits water. You could be shocked when in the area of a downed power line. The minimum safe distance from a downed power line is 35 feet. Consider all wires energized and dangerous.

Where do most electrical deaths occur?

The leading locations for fatal injuries from direct exposure to electricity were industrial places and premises (36% of deaths) and private residences (26%).