Columbus, Neb. – As a part of Severe Weather Awareness Week next week, Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to emphasize the danger of broken or downed powerlines.
Severe weather conditions, such as high winds and lighting, can cause a structure or powerline to be damaged or break. This can leave a live powerline either floating in the air or laying on the ground, creating a dangerous situation.
Media Relations Specialist Grant Otten says to take appropriate action in the event of a downed power line.
Otten says one should call their local power district or local emergency number or police or 911 and let them know whats going on so they can notify someone to turn the power off and repair the downed power line safely.
NPPD also has tips, recommendations, and advice on what to do in the name of safety when it comes to downed lines and the danger they pose. Otten gives an example of what to do should one fall on a vehicle.
Otten says that line could electrically be charging the car, in which case a person should call 911.
Otten also tells people to take the necessary safety steps to get out of a burning vehicle.
Otten tells KTIC News what people should NOT do.
Otten says people could also look out for others and stay in the area and make sure no one gets near the downed power line should they not see it.
Tips on safety precautions during a power outage are available at Electrical Safety (nppd.com).
