Vehicle Safety: How to Handle Downed Powerlines

Always assume a downed powerline is energized and dangerous. Keep yourself and others safe by following these important steps.

Key Safety Rule: Stay Back

Always stay at least 10 metres (about the length of a school bus) away from downed powerlines. Treat all powerlines as energized and potentially deadly.

If a Powerline Falls on Your Vehicle

• Stay inside the vehicle: Do not attempt to leave the vehicle or remove the downed wires.
• Warn others: Inform everyone around to stay at least 10 metres back, including first responders.
• If possible, drive away: If you can safely drive out from under the wire or away from the source of electricity, do so. Drive at least 10 metres before stopping.
• Do not drive over the powerline: Avoid any risk of the line tangling with your vehicle.
• If you can’t drive away: Remain inside the vehicle, call 911 and the local utility, and wait for a utility worker to confirm it’s safe to exit.

If You Must Exit the Vehicle

Only exit the vehicle if there is an immediate safety risk (e.g., a fire). Follow these steps to protect yourself:

1. Remove loose-fitting clothing to ensure no part of your body or clothing touches the vehicle and the ground simultaneously.
2. With the door open, tuck your elbows into your stomach, clasp your hands close to your chest, and prepare to jump.
3. Jump out of the vehicle, keeping your feet together, and avoid touching the vehicle.
4. Land with your feet together, then use the Shuffle Technique to move away from the vehicle.

The Shuffle Technique

To move safely away from the vehicle, shuffle your feet without lifting them off the ground. Ensure your feet are always touching each other to prevent electricity from traveling through your body. This technique protects you from the voltage gradient on the ground caused by the downed powerline.

If You’re Outside the Vehicle

• Stay back at least 10 metres (or the length of a school bus) from the vehicle.
• If possible, communicate with those inside the vehicle and instruct them to stay inside.
• Call 911 and the local utility for assistance.
• Wait for help to arrive—do not approach the vehicle or the downed powerline.

Additional Resource

Watch this video to learn more about vehicle safety and powerlines. Following these steps can save lives and prevent serious injuries in hazardous situations.