Power line safety
Downed power lines
- Don't allow anyone to touch or drive over a power line. Always assume a downed line is dangerous and still energized.
- If you're in a car accident involving a power line, stay in your vehicle until help arrives.
- If you must leave the vehicle, hop out on both feet without touching the car and the ground at the same time. Continue hopping with your feet together until you're as far away as possible.
If contact is made with a power line:
- Do not touch the victim until the circuit has been turned off. Unplug the appliance from the outlet or turn off the power at the fuse box or circuit breaker first.
- If you're sure the circuit has been turned off, administer first aid (CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if you are certified).
- If the victim is unconscious or not breathing, call 911. Make sure to tell the dispatcher it is an electrical accident.
- Always seek medical help for an electrical contact accident.
- Electricity burns from the inside out, so some injuries might not be visible; the heart also can be affected several hours after the contact.
Substations
Substations are fenced areas containing large electrical equipment. The electricity used in these substations is extremely dangerous. It can kill a person.
Substation are marked with either “Danger” or “Warning High Voltage” signs. Never enter a substation or even go near the fence surrounding one.
Poles and posters don't mix
Using utility poles to display community or personal messages isn't a good idea.
Signs often leave leftover nails, staples or tacks that are a danger to the line mechanics, potentially causing them to slip or become injured when climbing poles.
In many communities, posting signs on utility poles is illegal. Contact your city administrator for acceptable alternatives for displaying signage in your neighborhood.
Utility work zones
Motor vehicle fatalities in work zones are on the rise. About 85% of people killed in work zones aren't utility workers but vehicle drivers and occupants.
Utility work zones are clearly marked with signs or work zone flaggers, so pay close attention to the roadway, slow down and don't tailgate.
And don't forget that speed limits may be reduced in work zones, and fines may double if you are caught speeding.
To ensure safety and protect our utility workers, please don't verbally distract Alliant Energy line crew while working on electrical lines by trying to get their attention.