Stay Safe Around Electricity

Electricity brings a lot of convenience to our lives, but if it is not treated with respect and caution, it can be very dangerous. Use caution when working near power lines and other electric distribution system components.

Power line safety

• Make sure to always look for nearby power lines before you cut down trees or trim branches. If a tree falls into a power line, please contact Wright-Hennepin at 763-477-3100. Wright-Hennepin can assist in trimming trees that are touching or near power lines.
• Treat all power lines as energized. Never climb or attempt to handle a tree that has a limb caught in a power line. You may not see any visible evidence that the tree is “electrified” or dangerous.
• If you notice anything that might come into contact with power lines or may pose an immediate threat, notify Wright-Hennepin.
• If you are planning to plant trees on your property, make sure not to plant them directly under or within at least 25 feet of power lines for short trees, and at least 40 feet away for medium-sized trees.
• Do not fly kites or remote control airplanes near power lines. Should something get stuck in a power line, leave it there and call Wright-Hennepin for assistance.

Downed power lines

• Never touch or go near a downed power line.
• Don’t touch anything that may be touching a downed wire, such as a car.
• If a power line should fall on your vehicle while you are inside, do not get out. If you must exit the vehicle (because of fire), jump clear of the vehicle without touching it. Land with feet together and shuffle away.