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| As an emergency responder, you are typically first on the scene for vehicle accidents. When those accidents involve downed power lines resulting from vehicle-pole contacts, understanding the proper protocol can help you respond more effectively and reduce the risk of electrical shock. |
| To order our FREE safety training booklets, visit the Duke Energy first responder safety website. |
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| Assume All Power Lines Are Energized and Potentially Dangerous |
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Stay away and secure the area. |
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Do not enter, touch or even approach the vehicle. |
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Keep emergency personnel and the public a safe distance away from the downed line and anything it is touching. |
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Distribution lines: at least 30 feet away |
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Transmission lines: at least 100 feet away |
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Call Duke Energy immediately. |
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If occupants are not in imminent danger from fire or other hazards, instruct them to remain inside and to: |
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Drive the vehicle away from the line if the vehicle can be moved safely. |
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Stay put if the vehicle cannot be safely moved. |
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Remain in the vehicle until utility personnel give the all clear. |
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If occupants are in imminent danger from fire or other hazards, instruct them to: |
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NOT touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. |
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Jump clear of the vehicle and land with their feet together. |
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Shuffle away with small steps, keeping their feet close together and on the ground at all times. |
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| Would You Like to Know More? |
| Additional utility safety tips, case studies, instructional videos and training tools can all be found, at no charge to you, on Duke Energy's first responder safety website. |
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