Safety Around Power Lines

Overhead power lines bring electricity from generation plants to Pioneer’s distribution lines and into our homes. They are an essential part of the electric distribution system. They can also be very dangerous if not shown the proper respect.

Here are some basic rules about power line safety: 

• Remember most overhead lines are not insulated, and you do not have to come in contact with them to be electrocuted or seriously burned. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE. Isolation is the best Insulation.
• Never climb power poles or transmission towers. Pioneer’s overhead distribution lines carry 7,200 volts per wire. That is more than enough to deliver a deadly shock. Major transmission lines can carry 500,000 volts.
• Never climb trees near power lines. If a branch of a tree you are climbing comes close to or in contact with a power line, electricity could use the tree (and you) as the quickest way to the ground, causing serious injury or death.
• Always assume downed power lines are live and life-threatening. Keep children, pets, and vehicles away from downed power lines. Do not attempt to remove a person or animal caught in power lines. Call 911 for help.
  • If you notice a downed line, call Pioneer at 800-762-0997, or your local police or fire department.
• Never drive over a downed line or under a low-hanging wire. Beware of downed lines touching a vehicle. Stay away from the vehicle, it could be energized! If a downed line hits a vehicle you are in, stay in the vehicle until helps arrives. If you must exit the vehicle due to fire, jump clear of the vehicle without touching any metal. Make sure not to fall back into the vehicle. Land with both feet on the ground and slowly shuffle away from the danger.