According to the U.S. Consumer and Product Safety Commission, hundreds of consumer deaths occur each year from direct or indirect contact with power lines.  These experiences are not "freak accidents." In fact, most electrical injuries can be avoided, provided you take the time to learn some safety skills.

PPCS offers power line safety demonstrations to schools, emergency services personnel and other groups/organizations.  If you would like to schedule a demonstration, contact us at 715-273-4355,
800-924-2133 or info@piercepepin.com.

Power Line Safety Tips

·         Look up and around you. Always be aware of the location of power lines, particularly when using long metal tools like ladders, pool skimmers and pruning poles. Lower your long equipment when you are moving it. Carry ladders and other long items horizontally whenever possible.

·         Be careful when working on or around your roof, installing rooftop antennas and satellite dishes, doing roof repair work or cleaning gutters.

·         Be especially careful when working near power lines attached to your house. Keep equipment and yourself at least 10 feet from lines.

·         Never trim trees near power lines – leave that to the professionals. Never use water or blower extensions to clean gutters near electric lines.

·         Never climb trees near power lines.

·         If your projects include digging, like building a deck or planting a tree, call your local underground utility locator before you begin. Never assume the location or depth of underground utility lines. This service is free, prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted and can help you avoid serious injury or death.

• If you’re in a vehicle accident involving downed power lines, remain in the vehicle until help arrives and you are assured that the line is not energized. If you have to leave the vehicle because of fire or other danger, open the door, tuck in your arms and jump away from the vehicle so no part of your body touches the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Then hop with both feet together so that your feet land on the ground at the same time; or shuffle away keeping both feet together and in contact with the ground.  Don’t walk or run.