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First responder safety

Police, firefighters and EMTs are usually the first to respond on the scene of an emergency and can face great risk of electrical hazards.

We want to make sure first responders know how to recognize and manage these conditions to avoid life threatening situations for themselves and the people they serve.

What to do when arriving at an emergency scene

  • Please call us to report electrical hazards or request power lines and equipment be de-energized. Do not assume that we have been notified.
  • Assess current and potential hazards.
  • Avoid all power lines, including those on poles and downed lines. Don't park emergency vehicles under power lines.
  • Assume all lines are energized – don't touch or go near them.
  • Do not apply solid-stream water applications or foam sprays on or around energized equipment or lines.

Other tips to keep in mind

  • Remember, only qualified utility personnel are permitted to touch, cut or move downed lines or other company electrical equipment.
  • Most power lines, including coated wires, are not insulated.
  • Touching or approaching vehicles in contact with power lines can be hazardous.
  • Power lines can become re-energized at any time, automatically and/or by remote control.
  • Heavy smoke can conduct electricity.
  • Conductive objects like fences, vehicles and metal buildings can be energized if in contact with a downed power line or other energy source.

Additional resources