Trees and powerlines

Treat fallen power lines as energised and therefore dangerous

Trees contacting powerlines can pose a real threat to people and become an emergency unless extreme care is taken – particularly when cleaning up fallen trees near powerlines following storms or other circumstances.

In extreme situations people could be electrocuted or very seriously injured if they touch a tree branch that was in contact with a powerline. It is important to realise that if power lines fall to the ground because of storms or any other circumstances they may continue to be live until properly dealt with by the electricity company.

You must stay away from fallen power lines

Energy Safe Victoria advises the following safety precautions must be followed when power lines fall to the ground:

• Treat fallen powerlines as energised and therefore dangerous
• Immediately notify Jemena on 131 626 of broken or damaged powerlines
• If you live outside the Jemena Electricity Network, the distribution company phone number to contact for faults and emergencies is contained on electricity bills
• On roads and public places, the police should also be alerted
• Stay clear of all fallen tree limbs and powerlines, as well as anything they are touching such as water puddles, vehicles, metal fences and other objects that can conduct electricity
• Keep other people away from fallen powerlines
• Be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or debris may hide an electrical hazard
• Watch for dangling powerlines