Area road departments and firefighters are dealing with numerous fallen power lines due to Friday’s weather. 

In some cases,  the wires are blocking roadways.

Trying to move a downed power line on your own can be dangerous, or even deadly.

Pacific Gas and Electric is offering tips on what to do if you come across a live wire.

Avoid touching or approaching a fallen power line

Downed power lines are dangerous. Never touch them. For safety’s sake, always assume that a fallen power line is live, and follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid touching the downed line with your hand or an object, such as a stick, broom or pole.
  • Avoid touching anything, such as a car, object or equipment, or anyone who is in contact with a fallen power line.
  • Keep children and pets away from fallen electric lines.
  • Avoid driving over a fallen power line.
  • Call 9-1-1 immediately to report a fallen power line.

 Stay safe if a fallen power line touches your car

  • If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line, follow these safety rules:
  • Stay inside your car. The ground around your car may be energized.
  • Sound the horn, roll down your window, and call for help.
  • Warn others to stay away. Anyone who touches the equipment or ground around your car can be injured.
  • Use your mobile phone to call 9-1-1.
  • Wait until the fire department, police or utility workers tell you it’s safe to get out of your car before exiting the vehicle.

 If your car is in contact with a fallen power line and a fire starts, follow these guidelines when exiting your vehicle:

  • Remove loose items of clothing.
  • Keep your hands at your sides and jump clear of the vehicle, so you are not touching the car when your feet hit the ground.
  • Keep both feet close together and shuffle away from the vehicle without picking up your feet.