Know What Steps To Take & To Avoid

Vehicle collisions can involve utility poles, given the ubiquity of power lines along roadways. If you should suffer such bad luck, keep the following cautions in mind.

• Never assume a power line is dead. Even if a power line doesn't appear to be live, it may still be carrying a dangerous current.
• Stay in your car. Wait for a trained professional to tell you it's safe to leave the car.
• The safest place is usually inside the car. Only leave if the car is on fire or there is another immediate threat to your safety. 
• If you must exit, follow these practices to do so safely: 
  • Open the door without touching the metal frame.
  • Jump out with both feet together.
  • Shuffle away from the car. Keep both feet in contact with the ground, and shuffle at least 30 feet away.
• Call 911 emergency services immediately.
• Warn others to stay away. Tell anyone approaching your car to stay back.
• Don't touch anything that is in contact with the vehicle. Don't touch any passengers who may be in contact with a power line.
• Don't attempt to move anything. Don't try to move power lines or utility poles.
• Don't rely on protective gear, such as rubber boots, raincoats, rubber gloves, or wire cutters for protection.

Be safe. 

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Author: Deputy Chief Trevor Van Auken,  Minoa Fire Department, NY, 2024