Stay safe when driving near a fallen powerline

During a storm, above-ground power lines are at risk of being damaged and brought down by the force of the wind or by other structures and loose objects falling across them.

Motorists who come across a fallen power line should exercise extreme caution. Electricity can arc or jump up to eight metres, so even if you’re not close enough to be in contact with the live lines, you may still be at risk of electrocution.

Keep a minimum of eight metres away. You should never touch anything else that may be in contact with a fallen power line, such as tree branches.

If your car is in contact with a fallen power line, if possible, remain inside and call 000. In the event that you do need to exit the car due to another more immediate danger, make sure you are not in contact with the car and the ground at the same time.

To exit, jump clear of the car and make sure both of your feet come in contact with the ground at the same time and keep them close together. You should then shuffle away from the car and continue to keep both feet close to each other and in contact with the ground at all times until you are at least eight metres clear of the power line.

If you come across a fallen powerline call Western Power’s 24-hour emergency number on 13 13 51. In an emergency situation around a fallen powerline, call 000.