Power lines


If you see a downed power line, stay away

Downed power lines can hurt or kill you, even if they do not spark, hum or "dance." Stay away from anything that is touching the line, such as a tree, fence, vehicle, etc. Call 911 and We Energies (800-662-4797) to report the line. Do not touch someone being shocked by a downed line — you could be killed.

Watch for downed lines after storms


Shuffle, do not run, from a downed line

When moving away from a downed power line, shuffle with your feet together and on the ground. When a live wire touches the ground, electricity travels through the ground in all directions. Voltage lessens as it travels from the center where the live wire is touching the ground. If you run or take large steps, you could conduct electricity from one leg at one voltage to another leg at another voltage.

Downed lines and vehicles


If you MUST leave the car because of fire or other danger, JUMP away from the vehicle so that you do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Land with your feet together. Shuffle away, keeping your feet together and on the ground.

video Storm Damage
video Working Near Overhead Power Lines