Keeping safe around fallen powerlines
Fallen, low-hanging or damaged powerlines are dangerous and should not be touched or approached under any circumstances. Always assume powerlines are live and keep yourself and others at least 10 metres away.
Key points:
- Stay at least a bus length (10 metres) away and do not touch or go near fallen or low hanging power lines or equipment, they may still have power which can cause serious injury or death.
- Encourage others to stay away also.
- Consider the surrounding area, weather conditions and objects nearby that may also be a safety risk to yourself and others.
- Do not take risks.
What to do if you contact a powerline
When an object comes into contact with powerlines, there is a high risk of electric shock. If this happens, you should:
- immediately call and report to us
- do not move the object until advised by SA Power Networks it is safe to do so
If your vehicle comes into contact with a powerline, in some cases, it may be necessary for everyone to evacuate the vehicle to prevent injury. If this is the case, several steps must be followed to maximise your safety including:
- Jump out and clear of the vehicle, ensuring you do not touch the vehicle and ground at the same time
- Calmly walk away using small, shuffling steps
- Call SA Power Networks immediately
- Do not return to the vehicle until after the area has been made safe. Keep other people at least 10 metres away (a bus length)
- If you remain in your vehicle, others in the vicinity should keep well clear of you or the vehicle until we have made the line safe
First responders and fallen powerlines: critical safety reminder
We’ve seen an increase in council workers, contractors and members of the public — trying to move or rehang fallen powerlines before our crews arrive. While often well-intentioned, this is extremely dangerous.
Fallen powerlines can still be live and pose a serious risk of electric shock or electrocution. Always assume wires are live, stay at least 10 metres away, and report fallen powerlines immediately by calling 13 13 66.
Only trained SA Power Networks crews are authorised and equipped to make the area safe.
Download our “Staying safe around fallen powerlines” flyer — Share this with your team to help keep first responders and field workers safe at wires down incidents.