DALLAS — Officials and WFAA viewers across North Texas were reporting several downed and even sparking powerlines following severe storms that swept through DFW early Tuesday morning.
What do you do if you see a downed powerline near you or your home?
Oncor officials advise that you never attempt to approach, touch or move a power line or anything in contact with a power line. Any contact with a power line could cause serious injury or death, according to Oncor.
Live wires in contact with the ground cause electricity to be fanned out through the ground to the surrounding area, according to Oncor. It's possible to be shocked just by standing in the area of a down power line.
If you see a downed power line or sparks, Oncor and safety officials advise that you call 911 immediately. You should also call 911 if a power line comes in contact with your car or house.
Once you call local emergency officials, Oncor asks that you report the location of the downed line at 888-313-4747.
If your vehicles comes in contact with a power line while you're inside of it, call 911 and remain in the car unless it becomes unsafe due to immediate dangers, such as fire or smoke. If you have to leave the car jump away for it as far as possible and land on your feet, Oncor advises.
Oncor also advises you to consider all wires energized and dangerous and to never attempt to rescue someone who made contact with a powerline. Electricity can also travel through tree limbs, if a tree limb falls on a power line, call Oncor at 1-888-313-4747 to report it.