The short answer
Why Fallen Lines Are Dangerous
A fallen power line can carry a lethal electrical current even when it appears dead or has no sparking. The insulation on the wire may be damaged, or the line could be energized through contact with another object. Moisture from rain, puddles, or wet grass conducts electricity, so the ground around the line can become energized.
Your body is a conductor. Touching the wire, a nearby object, or even the wet ground within a certain radius can complete a circuit, causing severe injury or death. The voltage does not need to be high to be fatal. Always treat every downed line as live, regardless of its appearance.
- Stay at least 30 feet away from the wire and anything touching it.
- Do not touch the wire with any object, including a stick, broom, or rope.
- Keep pets and children inside and away from the area.
- If you see sparks or smoke, move further back and call 911.
- Never drive over a fallen line or through water near it.
What to Do If You See a Downed Line
If you spot a fallen power line, your first action is to create distance. Warn others nearby, including neighbors and passersby, to move away. Then call the local utility's emergency number and, if the wire is sparking or blocking a road, call 911 as well. Provide the exact location and describe any hazards like pooling water or damaged trees.
Do not assume someone else has reported it. Your call can prevent a serious accident. While waiting for the utility to de-energize the line, keep watching from a safe spot and continue to warn others. Never attempt to move the line or rescue someone who is in contact with it.
If Someone Is Touching the Wire
If a person or animal is in contact with a fallen power line, do not touch them. Your instinct to help could make you a second victim. The electricity can travel through their body and into you. Instead, call 911 immediately and tell the emergency operator it is an electrical emergency.
You may shout instructions to the person, telling them to stay still if they are conscious and not in contact with the wire. If they are unconscious, do not approach. Only trained utility workers or emergency responders with proper equipment should attempt a rescue. Your safest role is to keep others away and wait for help.
Water Damage After a Storm
A fallen power line often occurs during heavy storms that also cause flooding and water damage in homes. If water has entered your home, do not step into it until you are certain the power is off at the main breaker. Water conducts electricity, and a live current from a downed line could travel through floodwater. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
After the utility confirms the power is off, you can address water damage safely. If you have standing water indoors, a water damage inspection can help you understand the extent. Flood damage cleanup usually involves removing water, drying the structure, and checking for hidden moisture.
- Turn off your main breaker only if you can do so without standing in water.
- Avoid using any electrical appliances that may have been wet.
- Take photos of water damage for your insurance records.
- Wear rubber boots and gloves when entering a flooded area after power is off.
- Do not use a vacuum or any electrical tool on wet surfaces.
Who to Call for Cleanup Help
Once the power line is de-energized and the immediate danger is gone, you may need help with water damage inside your home. Local water damage pros can assess the situation and perform cleanup. They have the equipment to extract water, dry out materials, and prevent further damage.
Depending on what got wet, you might need drywall repair, flooring removal, or carpet cleaning. For example, if your attic has water damage from a roof leak during the storm, attic water damage restoration may be necessary. Each situation is different, so a professional inspection helps you know what steps to take.
- Water line break cleanup
- Flood damage cleanup
- Drywall water damage repair
- Water-damaged flooring removal
- Carpet water damage cleanup
Water damage does not wait
Call (386) 272-5697 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can a fallen power line be de-energized automatically?
Sometimes lines have automatic reclosers that attempt to restore power, but that does not mean the wire is safe. It can re-energize at any moment. Always assume the wire is live and stay away until the utility confirms it is de-energized.
What if the wire is on my car while I am inside?
Stay inside the car. The car's tires and body can protect you from the current, but do not touch metal parts. Call 911 and wait for instructions. If the car catches fire, jump out with both feet together, avoiding contact with the ground and the car simultaneously.
How far should I stay away from a downed power line?
Stay at least 30 feet away, or about the length of a school bus. If the wire is on the ground and the ground is wet, increase your distance. The voltage can spread through the ground, so keep yourself and others far back.