Downed power lines

If you see a downed power line, stay 10 metres back, call 911 and warn anyone nearby. Even if the line isn't sparking, it can still be energized and dangerous.

Stay safe near downed power lines

It is important to keep a safe distance from downed power lines as they can cause serious injury or death. If you see a power line on the ground or hanging low:

Stay back at least 10 metres (about the length of a school bus).
Don’t try to help anyone who is near the downed power line—it puts you at risk.
Call 911 or EPCOR Power Emergencies at 780-412-4500 to report the downed line.
Warn others to stay 10 metres away.

Downed power lines are dangerous—even if they don’t look like it. They might not spark or move like you see in the movies, but they can still cause serious injury or death if you get too close. Even if the power is out, the line could still be energized and dangerous.

Storms and strong winds are a common cause of downed power lines, often by knocking over trees or breaking branches that fall onto power lines. Car accidents and other accidental contact can also damage power lines and electrical equipment. When it does, our crews work hard to secure the area, fix the problem and get the power back on. Learn how we restore power to your property.

Too close to a downed power line? Shuffle away safely

If you're less than 10 metres from a downed power line, you need to shuffle away. Walking normally is dangerous.

How to shuffle away safely

Keep your feet together and on the ground at all times.
Shuffle slowly without lifting your feet.
Move away from the line until you’re at least 10 metres back.
Don’t touch anything or anyone while you move.

Electricity from a downed line can spread through the ground in invisible waves, losing its strength as it moves away from the initial point of contact. Walking normally, instead of shuffling, can put each foot in a different voltage zone at the same time, potentially causing you to be seriously injured or electrocuted.

Once you've safely shuffled away, call 911 or EPCOR Power Emergencies at 780-412-4500 to report the downed line.

If you're in a vehicle near a downed power line

Never drive over a downed power line. Determine if it’s safe to move your vehicle.

Your vehicle helps protect you from the risk of electric shock from a downed line. If you’re not in danger (e.g., car is on fire), you are safest inside your vehicle.

If your vehicle isn’t entangled in the line, drive away slowly.
If you can’t move your vehicle and it’s safe to do so, wait inside until help arrives.
Call 911 or Power Emergencies at 780-412-4500 to report the downed line.

Learn what to do if your vehicle touches a downed power line.

Report a downed power line

Call 911 or Power Emergencies immediately and tell them the exact location of the line.

Power Emergencies
Phone: 780-412-4500

Call us 24/7
We'll dispatch an EPCOR trouble truck to turn off the power and ensure the area is safe.

Disclaimer

This webpage provides information only. Any reliance placed on this information is strictly at your own risk. EPCOR does not assume any responsibility or liability for any action, loss or damage that arises out of, or is in connection with the information contained in this webpage.