Lorain-Medina Rural Electric’s mission is always to provide our members with safe and reliable power.

However, there are times when damage from storms, accidents, or even the occasional critter can damage the equipment LMRE utilizes to energize your homes. Equipment such as power lines, poles, meters, and pad-mount transformers (those green boxes) can look relatively harmless, but don’t be fooled — they can still house hidden dangers. When damaged, these items could still carry an electrical current strong enough to cause a serious injury, and that can spread like ripples on a pond.

There are two main types of danger to be aware of when you come across damaged utility equipment. Both can cause serious internal and external injury, including damage to vital organs, as electrical current enters the body at one point and exits at another.

General Tips: 

• Remain 50ft away from downed lines & anything touching it 
• The proper way to move away from a downed line is to shuffle with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times to minimize the chance of shock
• Warn others to stay away 
• Do not attempt to move the downed line or anything in contact with it, even by using another object such as a broom or stick
• If you encounter an individual in direct or indirect contact with a downed line or damaged electrical equipment, do not touch that person - you could be the next victim.
• Be careful of any water near a downed line, as water is a very conductive material 
• Call 9-1-1 & notify LMRE if you come across damaged.  

When in a Vehicle:  

• Never drive over downed lines
• In case of an accident involving damaged utility equipment, stay inside your vehicle or cab
• Honk your horn or call for assistance and warn others to stay away until the proper assistance arrives 

To learn more tips for remaining safe around downed powerlines visit Safe Electricity - Safe Electricity