Watch for downed power lines


January 18, 2012 · 1:04 PM

As the snowfall begins to subside, Pierce County Emergency Management cautions that downed power lines and trees leaning on power lines may pose a significant danger to people. By taking some simple precautions residents can avoid the dangers of downed power lines and trees.

If residents come across a downed power line they are encouraged to:

  • Stay at least 30 feet in all directions from downed power lines and expect that they are live.
  • Never try to move or touch them.
  • Never walk under downed power lines.
  • Avoid trees and branches in contact with power lines.
  • Never drive over downed power lines.
  • If you must exit your vehicle because of fire or other safety reasons, try to jump completely clear, making sure that you do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with both feet together and shuffle away in small steps to minimize the path of electric current and avoid electrical shock.

Residents should also be aware that heavy amounts of snow resting on roofs and tree limbs could be potentially dangerous.

 

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