Stag Special

Getting behind the wheel is the most dangerous thing most of us do each day, and that’s before high-voltage electric equipment is added to the equation.
Each year, countless vehicles crash into utility poles, knocking power lines to the ground and putting lives at risk.
If a power line falls to the ground or on your vehicle:
• Assume the downed power line – and everything it’s touching – is energized and dangerous. Not all energized power lines arc, spark, smoke, or buzz. In fact, many times, energized lines just lie motionless on the ground, but they’re just as deadly.
• Stay calm and stay put. When power lines are involved, staying inside your vehicle will prevent an electrocution risk. If your car is drivable and it’s safe to do so, back away from contact with the power line.
• Call 911. The dispatcher will notify Manitoba Hydro and a crew will be sent to de-energize the power line. Or call us directly at 1-888-MB-HYDRO (1-888-624-9376).
• Tell others to stay back. If someone approaches your vehicle, tell them to stay 10 metres back — about the length of a bus — to avoid electrocution.
If there’s fire or smoke, follow these safe exit steps:
• Prepare for your escape. Don’t touch your car and ground at the same time – a fatal shock may result. Remove loose clothing, open your car door, stand on the edge with your feet close together, and cross your arms over your chest.
• Jump out of the car and land with your feet together. Keeping your feet touching is more important than how far you jump. If your feet are apart from each other, electricity could travel through your body.
• Shuffle or hop. Shuffle your feet in slow and short strides — or hop with your feet together — until you’re at least 10 metres (30 feet) away from the wire. Don’t return to your vehicle until safety officials say it’s safe to do so.
Learn more at www.hydro.mb.ca/safety