A tragic incident in Portland, Oregon has once again highlighted the dangers of winter storms and their impact on electrical safety. Three individuals lost their lives after coming into contact with a live power line amidst icy conditions. As we navigate through the winter season, it’s crucial to understand how to protect ourselves and prevent similar accidents from happening.
The Risks of Ice Buildup
Winter storms often lead to ice buildup on tree branches and power lines, which can pose significant risks. The added weight of ice can cause branches and wires to snap and fall, potentially leading to electrocution accidents.
Three people died after a power line fell on a vehicle in Portland, Ore., on Wednesday. – KGW
Understanding Electrical Safety
Portland Fire & Rescue reported that the victims were electrocuted when they exited their SUV after the power line fell onto their car. Tragically, they became part of the active electrical circuit and lost their lives. It’s crucial to remember that contact with the ground while touching a vehicle with a downed power line can prove fatal.
Essential Safety Tips
In light of this incident, safety experts are sharing valuable tips on how to handle dangerous situations involving live wires:
- If a power line falls on your car while you’re inside, stay inside the vehicle, keep the ignition on, and immediately call 911. The ground near a downed power line can be energized, and standing water nearby can also conduct electricity.
- Avoid fallen branches or trees, as live wires can become entangled in them. Even wet wood can conduct electricity.
- If the vehicle catches fire, try to open the door and jump out without touching the car and the ground simultaneously.
- Honking the horn can be a way to seek help without leaving the car, but instruct others to keep a safe distance.
- When approaching a downed power line while driving, never drive over it. If possible, back away from the line and call 911.
- Maintain a distance of at least 35 feet from a downed power line, equivalent to around three car lengths.
- It’s challenging to distinguish between power lines and other cables, so always assume any downed line is dangerous and contact local authorities.
- If someone is in contact with a downed wire, avoid touching them. Human bodies can conduct electricity and spread it, posing a deadly risk.
- If you need to move away from a downed wire, shuffle your feet with small steps, keeping them together and on the ground to minimize the chances of being shocked.
- As a general rule, stay at least 10 feet away from any power line, even if it hasn’t fallen. Electrical currents can jump to nearby objects.
Importance of Caution
Michael Morse, a professor of electrical engineering at the University of San Diego, emphasizes that rushing into an electrically dangerous area can lead to personal harm without necessarily aiding others. Unless the situation absolutely requires it, it’s crucial for individuals to prioritize their safety and let trained professionals handle such incidents.
Remember that electrical accidents can happen unexpectedly, and it’s essential to maintain vigilance and follow safety guidelines to protect ourselves and those around us.
For more information on electrical safety, visit the Electrical Safety Foundation.
Source: F5 Magazine