Why do you need to shuffle away from downed power lines?

Downed power lines can energize the ground with high-voltage electricity. The voltage is strongest where the power lines touch the ground or an object and gets lower with distance from that point. If you walk normally across an energized area, electricity may travel up one leg and down through the other to get from a higher-voltage to a lower-voltage zone. This could cause a serious or fatal electrical shock.

Shuffling keeps one foot in a similar voltage zone as the other foot, making electrical shock less likely.

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.