Electric Safety
Power lines can be extremely dangerous. Know how to stay safe around electricity.
Coming into contact with a power line can be deadly. That's why it's important to assume that all power lines, whether in the air or on the ground, are energized.
Strong winds, ice and heavy snow can lead to downed power lines. If you see a downed or damaged power line, keep your distance and call 911 immediately. Never touch a power line or any object, including trees, that is in contact with a line.
Strong winds, ice and heavy snow can lead to downed power lines. If you see a downed or damaged power line, keep your distance and call 911 immediately. Never touch a power line or any object, including trees, that is in contact with a line.
Stay away from downed power lines
- Keep people, equipment and objects at least 10 feet away from power lines.
- Never attempt to remove a fallen tree or branch from a power line. You could be seriously injured or killed.
- If a tree or branch does come in contact with a power line, keep yourself and others away from the tree and contact NorthWestern Energy.
What to do if your vehicle contacts a power line
Stay put
Stay in the vehicle and call 911 for help.
Only exit if you must
If you must exit the vehicle because of a fire, tuck your arms across your body and jump clear of any wires with your feet together, never touching the equipment and ground at the same time. Then shuffle or hop at least 40 feet away with your feet together.
Stay away
Stay away from the equipment until the authorities tell you it is safe.