Power Line Hazards and Cars
If a power line falls on a car, you should stay inside the vehicle.
This is the safest place to stay. Warn people not to touch the car or the line. Call or ask someone to call Northern Electric Cooperative and emergency personnel.
The only circumstance in which you should consider leaving a car that is in contact with a downed power line is if the vehicle catches on fire.
- Open the door. Do not step out of the car. You may receive a shock.
- Jump free of the car so that your body clears the vehicle before touching the ground.
- Once you clear the car, shuffle at least 40 feet away, with both feet on the ground.
As in all power line emergencies, call for help immediately by dialing 911 and then call Northern Electric Cooperative at 1-800-529-0310.
Do not try to help someone else in a vehicle that is in contact with a power line while you are standing on the ground.