Powerline Safety

Top Powerline Safety Tips & Videos

• How close can you or any object you're using safely get to an overhead powerline?

  Keep yourself or any object you're using a minimum of 3-6 meters (10 - 20 feet) away from overhead power lines.

• How close can you safely get to a downed powerline?

  If you see a downed power line maintain a distance of at least 10 meters (33 feet) about the length of a school bus. Report the downed line to Entegrus or 911 immediately and warn others not to approach.

• How dangerous are ground transformers

  Electrical equipment is often contained in locked steel cabinets that appear on front lawns. It is very dangerous to try to open or touch the equipment inside.

• What do you do if a powerline falls on your vehicle?

  If you are in a vehicle that a power line has come down on stay inside until power has been disconnected. Call 911, warn others not to approach.

  ONLY if you are in immediate danger (eg: your car is on fire) should you exit the vehicle very carefully following these steps:

  • Remove any loose-fitting clothing. Ensure that no part of your body or your clothing is touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time when you exit the vehicle.
  • With the door open, prepare to jump by tucking your elbows into your stomach and keeping your hands clasped close to your chest.
  • Jump out and away from the vehicle, making sure that you land with your feet together. You must not stumble, so don't try and jump far. Just travel a couple of feet so you can make sure you're not touching the vehicle.
  • Move away from the vehicle, using the shuffle technique – it’s dangerous to walk normally by stepping and picking your feet off the ground.
  • The shuffle technique: ensure your feet do not lift off the ground, and that your feet are always touching. The inside of your heel should still be touching the toe of the other foot when you start to move the other leg forward.
• Should you call before you dig?

  Always call before you dig. It could save your life! Call Ontario One Call at 1-800-400-2255.

• How dangerous is an overhead powerline?

  It is very dangerous to touch an overhead power line. You could be killed!