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Working Around Overhead Power Lines
Power lines should not be touched under any circumstances.
Be careful when moving antennas, metal gutters or other long metal items that could inadvertently touch
an energized power line. When working on a roof, be cautious of the location of power lines so that
you don't stand up and accidentally come in contact with a line.
Outdoor Power Tool Safety
Inspect power tools and electric lawn mowers before each use for frayed power cords, broken plugs,
and cracked or broken housings. If damaged, stop using it immediately. Repair it or replace it. Always
use an extension cord marked for outdoor use and rated for the power needs of your tools. Electric-powered
mowers and other power tools should not be used in the rain, on wet grass or in wet conditions. Remember
to unplug all portable power tools when not in use.
Ladder Safety
Use extra caution when using a ladder near power lines as you do repair work, remodeling or maintenance
work around your home.
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Keep ladders and tools at least 10 feet from power lines.
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Allow greater clearance around high-voltage lines. Use only a clean, dry, wood or fiberglass
ladder - never a metal ladder – anywhere near electric lines.
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When installing or removing an antenna, make sure it is at least one-and-one-half times its
total height away from power lines. If the antenna starts to fall, let it go and stay clear.
Cutting Down Trees
Cutting down a tree or even pruning limbs is a potentially dangerous task. Tree limbs that grow into power
lines may be carrying an electrical current. You could come in contact with the current just by touching
the tree limb. Also, use caution when pruning trees with long-handled pruning equipment, especially if
it is made of metal. Always look up for overhead lines.
Landscaping
When planning any outdoor planting, be sure to consider the proper placement of trees and shrubs.
Inspect the planting area and then select low-growing trees or shrubs that will not touch overhead power
lines. Don't forget about underground power lines. If planting near a transformer, be sure to keep a
distance of 10 feet from any side with an opening and 3 feet from other sides. Electrical workers need
space to safely open the transformer when working on underground power lines.
Water and Electricity
Be careful when using electricity near water. Water makes it easy for you to become an electrical path
to the ground. Don't use power tools when the ground is wet or while standing in water. Don't touch an
electrical appliance while in a pool or hot tub. Make sure outdoor electrical outlets are weatherproofed
and protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). A GFCI is designed to protect against
electrical shock.
Kite Flying Safety Tips
Always supervise children when they are flying kites. Kites should be flown in open fields, away from
overhead power lines. If a kite becomes tangled in a power line or electrical equipment, let it go.
Do not try to retrieve the kite! Do not touch the tail, string, or any part of the kite. In addition,
take particular care to keep mylar kites and mylar helium balloons away from power lines. Because
mylar is a good conductor of electricity, these metallic kites and balloons can cause personal
injury or interruptions in electric service.
Digging in Your Yard
Before you dig, remember to place a call at least 3 working days in advance to Pennsylvania One Call
at 8-1-1. There is no charge for this service for homeowners.
Visit www.paonecall.org for more information.
Touching an underground power line could result in a serious or fatal injury.
Electrical Meters
Tampering with an electric meter is dangerous. Touching an energized meter could cause serious injury
or death. Meter tampering also constitutes a theft, which could result in legal actions, including
fines and/or imprisonment.
If you suspect a problem with your meter, call Duquesne Light at
412-393-7100.
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