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Community Corner

When a Tree or Power Line Falls ............

Please review these safety tips from PG&E regarding downed power lines.

Article Source: San Bruno CA Fire Chief Dave Cresta

San Bruno Police, Fire and Public Works are responding to several reports of trees and power lines down.

Please review these safety tips from PG&E regarding downed power lines.

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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.

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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 PG&E 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.

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Robert Riechel

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Photo Credit: San Bruno CA Patch Archives

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