Downed power lines

If you’re ever in a car accident involving a utility pole, your first instinct might be to jump out and check the damage. But when power lines are involved, that’s the last thing you should do.

Here’s the truth: If a power line comes down on or near your vehicle, the ground around it—and your vehicle itself—could be energized with dangerous voltage. Stepping out could mean stepping into serious danger.

We’re not trying to scare you—we just want to make sure you and your loved ones know what to do. Because knowing how to respond in a split-second situation could save a life.

If you hit a power pole or utility equipment:

Stay in your car or cab
Even if it looks safe, stay put. Call 9-1-1 and let them know there’s a power line involved so crews can safely respond.

Only get out if there’s a fire
If you see smoke or flames and must exit, don’t touch the car and ground at the same time. Jump clear with both feet together, then hop away—keeping your feet together—at least 50 feet from the scene.

Don’t approach the scene
If you see an accident involving a pole or power lines, don’t run over to help. Call 9-1-1 and keep others away until help arrives.

Why hopping matters
Electricity from downed lines can spread through the ground like ripples in a pond—each ring carries a different voltage. If you step from one voltage “ring” to another, even a small difference in current can travel through your body. That’s called step potential, and it’s extremely dangerous. Hopping keeps both feet in the same voltage zone.

Quick tip for farmers and drivers:
Even if you just hit a guy wire (the wire running into the ground to stabilize poles), treat the scene like it’s energized. That wire can carry current if it’s damaged or pulled loose.

We hope you never have to deal with a situation like this. But just in case, share this info with your family, especially new drivers and equipment operators. When it comes to power line safety, staying calm—and staying put—can save your life.

At Cass County Electric, safety is always part of the plan.

 Learn more here