Are these lines hot...or not?

Power lines appear deceptively safe laying quietly on the ground. "Hot or not?" could change in a millisecond. No sound, no flash, no spark. No matter what, power lines are NOT safe to touch. 

If you come across a low or downed power line, no matter the circumstances, please follow to these safety tips:

• Call La Plata Electric Association at (970) 247-5786. 
• Stay away ─ up to 35 feet away ─ from downed power lines and anything touching them. Even the ground around downed power lines may be energized. Remember, always stay 35 feet away! You cannot tell whether a power line is energized just by looking at it. Hot or not? You should assume all downed power lines are live.
• If you see someone who is in direct or indirect contact with the downed line, do not touch the person. You could become the next victim. Call 911 for help.
• Do not attempt to move a downed power line or anything else in contact with it by using an object such as a broom or stick. Even non-conductive materials like wood or cloth can conduct electricity if even slightly wet.
• Be careful not to touch or step in water near where a downed power line is located.
• Do not drive over downed power lines.
• If your car encounters a downed power line while you are inside, stay in the car. Honk your horn to summon help or call 911, but direct others to stay away from your car as it may be energized.
• If you must leave your car because it is on fire, jump out of the vehicle with both feet together and avoid contact with both the car and the ground at the same time. Shuffle away from the car with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground always. This will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.

We have already seen some impressive high winds this spring, and more windy days are likely on the way. No matter how safe it may seem, please protect yourself and do not touch low or fallen power lines under any circumstances. Call us at 970-247-5786, and we will secure the area as soon as we are safely able to.