Power-Line Downed? Here are 4 Crucial Safety-Measures that Will Keep You Alive

When a live power-line falls down onto a car, it creates a very dangerous situation.  This is because coming in contact with electrical current is lethal.  The good thing about downed power-lines is that vehicles automatically ground their current. This protects the inhabitants of a vehicle from being electrocuted.  Regardless of this grounding effect though, it’s still important not to come in contact with any metallic parts of the vehicle.

Don’t Panic:

               Electrical Safety Expert Brian Bleau suggests that “Each year, countless vehicles crash into utility poles and other electrical equipment across the energy grid. This usually causes power-lines to come down – not only knocking out power to nearby homes and businesses – but also putting lives at risk.” The way a motorist reacts to these dilemmas can mean the difference between life and death. Here are a few safety tips to follow when power-lines fall down onto a vehicle:

1.    DON’T TOUCH ANY METAL:

               The biggest hazard from any downed power-line is the electrical current that flows through metal.  No matter how tempting it might be to make a run for it, stay put. Don’t touch any metallic parts of your car.  Including the door.  Doing so would automatically expose you to deadly electrical shock.

2.    Dial 911:

               The best way to get help under these circumstances is by dialing 9-1-1.  If there’s an additional emergency contact you can notify, then let them know as well.  Provide as much information as you can about your location, and let them know everything you can about the power-line.  If you can confirm for a fact that help is on the way, then sit tight and wait.

3.    Honk Your Horn:

               One way to call attention to your distress is by honking your horn.  As you do so, be sure to make hand gestures that let people know about the power-line.  Point to it vigorously so that anybody who approaches understands that the power-line is a hazard.

4.    Comply with First-Responders:

               Even with the swiftest response, it’s going to take a combination of engineers, firefighters and law enforcement to secure the area.  Don’t allow yourself to become impatient just because help has arrived on the scene.  Keep an eye out for helpful instructions, and do what you can to make things easy on first-responders.

Conclusion:

               Encountering downed power-lines is stressful.  But no matter how terrified you might be, remember not to panic.  The best thing to do is stay put, dial 911, and wait for emergency services to come to the rescue.  If you can, gesture for help to any onlookers who can provide assistance.  Keep your hands away from the extremities of the vehicle, and pay attention to what’s going on with the power-line. For more information, visit our website or give us a call at 1-800-639-7654 to find out how Adriana’s Insurance Services can help you stay safe. We got you covered!