What you need to know
Fallen powerlines could be live and deadly to approach
While a fallen powerline may appear harmless, it could be live and deadly to approach. It’s always safest to assume a fallen powerline is live and to stay at least 10 metres away.
Electricity can travel through the ground
A fallen powerline can send electricity into the ground for up to 10 metres all around it. If you see a fallen powerline, don’t touch anything near it and keep clear of the 10-metre danger zone.
What to do if your vehicle hits a power pole
If your vehicle is in contact with a fallen powerline, it could be electrified and so could the ground around it.
Follow these steps to stay safe
Stay in vehicle
It sounds strange, but your car is actually the safest place for you to be because you aren't in physical contact with the ground.
If you aren't in immediate danger, stay in the vehicle, warn others to keep away and call 000.
Exiting the vehicle safely
You should only get out of your vehicle if it’s on fire or you believe you are in imminent danger. To do this safely, you need to make sure you don’t touch the vehicle and ground at the same time.
The safest way to exit the vehicle is by jumping from the car, keeping your feet together and your arms towards your chest.
Shuffle to safety
After you’ve exited the vehicle, you still need to get out of the danger zone safely.
You can do this by keeping your feet close together and shuffling one foot forward a little at a time, never letting the heel of one foot move past the toe of the other. Keep shuffling until you're at least 10 metres away.
Horizon Power acknowledges the Traditional Custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders past, present and emerging.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this website may contain images, names or voices of deceased people.