Downed Line Program
Downed power lines can pose a serious and potentially deadly danger. While utility lineworkers are trained to work around energized equipment, members of the public and first responders may also encounter downed or damaged power lines following storms, vehicle accidents, fallen trees or other emergencies.
GRU’s Downed Line Program teaches participants how to recognize electrical hazards and, most importantly, what to do and what not to do when they encounter a downed or potentially energized power line.
Using a scaled-down version of GRU’s electrical system, our team demonstrates real-life scenarios to show how electricity behaves and how quickly a dangerous situation can develop. The demonstration helps participants visualize hazards involving downed lines, vehicles, trees and other objects that may come into contact with electrical equipment.
The program can be tailored for schools, first responders and community organizations. Participants leave with a better understanding of electrical safety, the importance of keeping a safe distance from downed lines and the steps they can take to protect themselves and others.
Request the Downed Line Program: GRU > Our Community > Make a Request > Facility Tours & Speakers
Power Line Safety
Stay away from downed power lines! Power lines are not insulated like power cords. You can't smell, see or hear electricity, so there is no way to determine whether a downed power line is energized. Always assume it is energized and maintain a safe distance.
Please read our power line safety Q&A below to learn how to stay safe around electrical hazards. If you have additional questions, call GRU at 352-334-2871.
Downed Power Lines
Question: What should I do if I see a fallen or dangling power line?
Answer: Stay a safe distance away and immediately call 911 and GRU at 352-334-2871. Always assume the line is energized.
Question: Can I use an object to move a downed power line?
Answer: No. Never use any object to move a power line, including brooms, boards, tree limbs or plastic objects. Materials that normally do not conduct electricity may become conductive when wet or contaminated, putting you at risk of electric shock or electrocution.
Vehicle Involved
Question: What should I do if a downed power line touches my vehicle?
Answer: Stay inside the vehicle. The ground surrounding the vehicle may be energized. Call 911 if possible, honk your horn and warn others to stay away from the vehicle and power line.
Question: What if I have to leave the vehicle because of a fire or another immediate danger?
Answer: If you must exit, do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Jump clear of the vehicle with both feet together, then shuffle away without lifting your feet or hop away with both feet together. Continue moving away from the area before returning to a normal walking stride.
General Safety
Question: I sometimes see shoes or other objects hanging from power lines. Is that safe?
Answer: No. Never throw shoes, ropes, strings or other objects onto power lines. Contact with electrical equipment can cause short circuits, electrical hazards and serious injuries.
Question: Do I need to worry about power lines when digging at my home?
Answer: Yes. Electric and other utility lines may be buried underground on your property. Always call 811 before digging to have underground utility lines located and marked. This service is free.
