Outdoor Electrical Safety

Electricity is everywhere we go. That's why it is important to remember to practice good electrical safety at all times—even while enjoying the outdoors.

Always assume that utility lines and other electrical equipment are "live" - or energized - and keep far away from them.

Outdoor Recreation Precautions

• Check for transmission lines and overhead power lines when skydiving, ballooning, parasailing, hang gliding,  kite flying, or flying model airplanes
• Watch for overhead lines when boating and fishing - masts, fishing poles, or tall radio antennas could contact overhead wires
• Remember to keep electrical equipment at least ten feet from pools and wet surfaces
• Stay out of lakes, ponds, pools, and spas during storms
• Unplug all electrical equipment when not in use

Call 811 Before Digging

• In Tennessee, it is state law that you must call before digging to make sure you know the location of any underground utilities
• Call 811 to request your underground utilities be located

In Case of an Electrical Storm

• If you are out in the open, seek shelter
  • The best shelter is a house or in your vehicle
  • Do not stand under a tree
    • Instead of providing shelter, a wet tree can attract lightning
• If you are caught in the open, seek low ground
  • Sit or lie down
    • It may be uncomfortable, but it could save your life
• If you are on a golf course, get in your golf cart
  • Never hold a metal club in your hand
• If you are in the water, get out!
  • Even if you are in a boat, you are at very high risk of electrocution

When Power Lines Fall

• Always assume that utility lines and other electrical equipment are "live" - or energized - and keep away from them
• If a power line falls on or near your vehicle while you are in it, stay in your vehicle and tell others not to touch the wires on the vehicle. Persons outside the vehicle should stay away, because anyone on the ground who touches your vehicle could be in danger. If you must leave the car due to other hazards, do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Jump clear of fallen lines and land with your feet together. Hop away (do not walk or run) with your legs together. Both feet must touch the ground at the same time, or you could be in danger
• Immediately report any fallen, low hanging, or smoking wires to KUB at (865) 524-2911
• Fences, trees, and other objects can become electrified when a live wire falls on them
  • Do not touch them!
• If someone is touching a fallen power line, stay away
  • Call for emergency help
  • Do not try to rescue the victim
  • Efforts to pull a shock victim away could make you a victim
  • Stay clear until you are sure the power is shut off