What To Do About a Downed Power Line

Strong winds and falling trees can knock down power lines, especially during powerful storms. Downed power lines are dangerous — you should not touch them, even if they’re not sparking or making noise. If you spot a downed power line, keep your distance and report it immediately to emergency services and your local utility company.

Downed power line safety tips

Downed power lines are a safety hazard. Coming too close to the wires or touching them can result in severe injuries or death. Follow these safety tips if you come across a fallen power line:

• Stay at least 30 feet away from the line and anything it’s touching
• Call 911 to report the hazard, then call your utility company
• Assume it’s live and dangerous
• Avoid water and metal objects nearby
• Do not drive over the downed wire
• Warn others to stay away from the area

Call 911 right away and explain the location of the downed line. Then call your utility company to alert them of the issue. If you can see without getting close, explain whether the downed wire is touching anything or if there are visible sparks, smoke, or injuries. Never approach a downed line to get more details, as the ground or nearby object could be energized and cause injury.

It’s natural to feel panicked if a power line falls on your home or vehicle, but staying calm and knowing what to do can make a difference.

If a power line lands on your house, the safest choice is to stay inside and call 911 to report it. Wait to move until you receive information from emergency services and your utility company that the area is safe. Avoid using water or touching metal because it might be energized and dangerous. During urgent situations, such as a house fire or structural damage, leave your house from the side farthest from the power line.

If you encounter a downed line while in a vehicle, stay in your car unless there’s an emergency like smoke or fire. Call 911 and let others know to stay away from the car. In the event you need to get out, open the door, jump out without touching the car and the ground at the same time. Try to land with both feet together, shuffle away in small steps, and don’t stop until you’re 100 feet away. Leave your car in the area until an emergency service worker tells you it’s safe to return.

Downed power lines often cause outages that can last hours or days, depending on the severity of the storm or other causes. Power outages impact more than just your home electricity — they can put your health at risk if you rely on medical devices or refrigerated medications. Use the following power outage tips to keep your household safe.

• Limit how often you open the fridge or freezer. A closed fridge can keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer can hold its temperature for 48 hours. You can use a cooler with ice as a backup, but throw away any food that reaches 40 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
• If you use a generator, ensure it’s outside your home and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
• Unplug your electronics and appliances during the outage to protect them from a power surge when electricity is restored.
• Make sure you have a backup power source if you or an elderly relative relies on electricity for medical devices.
• Check with your local officials about nearby shelters or a place to go in an emergency.
• Preparing an action plan can help keep you safe and reduce stress during an outage.

Storm safety guides

Extreme weather is a common cause of downed lines and power outages. You can use the following Choose Energy guides to prepare and stay safe during various types of storms.

• Hurricane safety guide
• Tornado safety guide
• Winter storm guide

Storms and power outages can be unpredictable, but your energy plan doesn’t have to be. Lock in a stable electricity rate to avoid spikes during extreme weather. Choose Energy makes it simple to compare electricity providers and find a plan that fits your home, budget, and energy needs.

We’ve got you covered with energy plans from top electricity companies in your area, whether you’re searching for more reliable service, better prices, or green energy options. Enter your ZIP code on this page and compare electricity plans in your area today.

What are downed power lines?

Downed power lines are electrical wires that have fallen to the ground or are hanging lower than normal due to storm damage, fallen trees, or car accidents. These lines might look harmless, but they can still carry live electricity. Stay at least 30 feet away at all times and report the downed line to 911 and your utility company.

Are downed power lines dangerous?

Yes, downed power lines are dangerous, even if they aren’t sparking or making noises. They can electrify the ground, water, or nearby objects like fences and trees. Getting too close can result in serious injury. Stay far away from downed power lines, call emergency services, and warn others in the area to keep their distance.

Who fixes downed power lines?

Your local utility company is responsible for maintaining and repairing power lines and other electrical infrastructure. Once the issue is reported, the utility will send a team to make the repairs when the weather conditions are safe.

How long does it take to fix a power line?

It depends on the severity of the damage to the power line or grid, the location of the downed line, and the utility’s availability. Minor outages might take a few hours to resolve, while major storm damage can take days to repair.

Can you drive over downed power lines?

No, do not drive over a downed line even if it looks inactive. The wire or nearby ground may be energized and cause injury or damage to you and your vehicle. Report the downed line and turn around to find an alternative route instead.