Never Touch or Approach a Downed Power Line

A downed power line can energize the ground for up to 10 meters in every direction. You don't need to touch the wire to be electrocuted — just standing nearby can kill you through ground current that travels up one leg and down the other. If you see a downed line, keep everyone at least 10 meters back and call emergency services immediately. If you find yourself near one, shuffle away with tiny steps, keeping your feet close together so current can't flow between them. Never assume a line is dead.