Outdoor Electrical Safety
Power Lines/Substations/Transformers
Electrical currents exist in places other than electrical outlets. There are a number of electrical dangers to be aware of outdoors, including lightning and power lines. To avoid injury, pay attention to your surroundings both indoors and outdoors.
- Check for power lines in or near trees before using a ladder (even a wooden ladder) or scaffolding or before trimming branches. Call Pepco at 202-833-7500 for trimming of branches that interfere with power lines.
- Install antennas away from power lines.
- Never go near or touch a fallen power line. Call Pepco at 202-872-3432 to report the location of the downed line.
- Don't throw anything over or at a power line, substation, or transformer.
- If a power line falls on your car, stay in the car and try to drive away. Do not touch the metal parts of the car. If you can’t drive, wait for help. Call 911 for assistance if you have a cellular phone. If you must get out of the car, jump clear without touching the car and the ground at the same time.
For more information, please read the following brochure: Work Safely Near Power Lines
