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What can I do about low hanging power lines?
Any time you have a safety concern about sagging or downed lines, it is best to contact the utility company or call 9-1-1. When calling or writing the utility company who is responsible for the low hanging power lines, make notes of every phone contact, and keep copies of all written communications.
Are down power lines dangerous?
Downed power lines are dangerous. Never touch them. Avoid touching anything, such as a car, object or equipment, or anyone who is in contact with a fallen power line. Keep children and pets away from fallen electric lines.
Can you touch a downed power line?
Never Touch a Downed Power Line Never touch anything or anyone in contact with a power line. The minimum safe distance from a downed power line is 35 feet. Consider all wires energized and dangerous. Even de-energized lines may become energized at any time.
What causes power lines to sag?
The lines are often heavily loaded because of increased power consumption, and the conductors, which are generally made of copper or aluminum, expand when heated. That expansion increases the slack between transmission line structures, causing them to sag.
Why do power lines hang loosely?
During transmission of electricity, heat is being dissipated. The heat generated by cables is being minimized via high voltage transmission. So, the cables are loose so that even if contraction should occur, there won’t be much tension which would lead to the damage of the cables.
What causes a power line to catch fire?
The most common causes are weather-related events that cause damage to lines and the equipment attached to them. Once damaged or downed, wires may contact trees and other combustible materials resulting in sparks, smoke and fires. Other causes include animal or human contact, equipment failures, and conductor slaps.
Who do you call when a power line goes down?
LADWP
Report any downed power lines immediately by calling the LADWP at 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397). If you or someone else is in danger, call 911. Allow access for uniformed LADWP crews, all of whom carry Department-issued identification cards, so they may service infrastructure in need of repair.
Why do electrical power lines hang down lower in summer than winter?
What should you not do if a power line is down?
Avoid touching or approaching a fallen power line. Downed power lines are dangerous. Never touch them. For safety’s sake, always assume that a fallen power line is live, and follow these guidelines: Avoid touching the downed line with your hand or an object, such as a stick, broom or pole.
What should you do if a power line hits your car?
Stay safe if a fallen power line touches your car. If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line, follow these safety rules: Stay inside your car. The ground around your car may be energized. Sound the horn, roll down your window and call for help. Warn others to stay away.
How far away from power lines can I safely work?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires anyone working or lifting within 10 feet of overhead power lines or poles to contact the appropriate utility. This distance could be greater when dealing with higher voltage. (When using a crane, minimum approach distances are different. Call for information.)
How to work safely near overhead electric power lines?
Working safely near overhead electric power lines 1 Managing The Risk. Before work starts identify all overhead power lines in your work area as part of your risk assessment. 2 Staying outside The Safe Distances. At no time should any H/MEWP, person or piece of equipment come within the safe distances. 3 Work Procedures 4 Safety Rules.
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