Power Line Safety Tips
- Keep away from all downed power lines.
- A power line that touches the ground can shock or kill you even if you do not touch it.
- The electrical current can travel through the ground and into your body.
- Keep all objects far away from power lines at all times, including:
- If taking down or moving an antenna, be aware of new lines that have been put up since the antenna was installed.
- Never assume that an overhead power line is electrically insulated.
- Always assume that contact with any line can be lethal.
- Never place a ladder anywhere near an electrical power line.
- Position non-metal ladders (such as fiberglass) at a height and location that prevents the possibility of you or it contacting a power line.
- Keep the distance from an antenna or pole to the power line at least 1½ times the height of the antenna or pole.
- Properly ground all masts in accordance with electrical codes.
- Be aware that you can be electrocuted by touching a power line directly or by touching a conductive material (such as a metal ladder, antenna, pipe, kite) and, at the same time, the earth or any grounded item (such as metal siding or a downspout).
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission