It’s natural to want to get out of your vehicle quickly after a crash. But when power poles are involved, that instinct can be lethal. Instead, assume the area around your vehicle is extremely dangerous and take these steps:
STAY in your vehicle.
Downed power lines may energize the ground and objects nearby, even if the lines don’t hum or spark. You are safest inside the vehicle. But if you notice smoke or fire, here’s what to do.
WARN bystanders to stay far away.
Anyone who contacts a downed line, the vehicle or the surrounding area can be injured or killed.
CALL 911.
Wait for utility workers to arrive and de-energize the power lines.
Always assume all downed lines are energized and dangerous, even if they don’t hum or spark.
Follow the same steps if you crash into a pad-mounted transformer.
Exit the vehicle ONLY if you notice smoke or fire:
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PLAN your exit route to avoid contact with sagging or downed lines.
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JUMP clear of your vehicle. DO NOT touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
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LAND with your feet together and shuffle away with small movements. Keep your feet close together and on the ground at all times. DO NOT allow the heel of one foot to pass the toes of the other.
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STAY at least 100 feet away from the crash area until utility personnel tell you it’s safe.
