Stay Safe During Outdoor Activities by Avoiding Power Lines and Equipment

June 21, 2012

SALT LAKE CITY — Rocky Mountain Power encourages parents to remind their children of all ages about staying safe around power lines and other electrical equipment, during outdoor activities this summer and throughout the year.

“Electricity serves an essential purpose, but ignoring safety rules around power lines and other electrical equipment can result in serious injury or even death,” said Mike Felice, Rocky Mountain Power safety and environmental services director. “Children and teenagers should be reminded to stay safe by keeping away from power lines, electrical substations, transmission towers and other electrical facilities when outside playing. These cautions apply to adults as well.”

Rocky Mountain Power offers the following tips for enjoying outdoor activities safely:
 
  • Check trees for overhead wires running near or through limbs and branches before climbing or building tree houses. Walk a full circle around the tree, and if lines are present, do not climb the tree.
     
  • Never attempt to climb a transmission tower, power pole or other structure associated with providing electric service.
     
  • Never climb an electrical substation fence or wall, or attempt to enter a substation. High-voltage electrical equipment located in substations can be very hazardous and only qualified and authorized Rocky Mountain Power personnel are allowed inside.
     
  • Never poke, pry or climb on the tan or green ground-mounted power transformers or boxes. They’re safe while sealed but pose a threat if tampered with.
     
  • Ensure trampolines, play equipment and swimming pools are never located underneath power lines.
     
  • Fly kites in clear areas, away from overhead power lines. If a kite becomes tangled in electrical wires, immediately let go of the string and make no attempt to remove the kite! Call Rocky Mountain Power toll free at 888-221-7070.
     
  • Call 811 to have underground utility lines marked before starting any digging project. This is a free service and the underground lines will be marked in two business days.
     
For additional electrical safety tips or to request a free Power Lines - Stay Away to Stay Safe brochure, call toll free at 800-375-7085 or visit www.rockymountainpower.net/safety.
 
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