Overhead Power Lines

It is important to use extreme caution when near overhead power lines. Here are some helpful safety tips:
  • If you see a downed power line, contact your local utility immediately. Don’t touch the line or anything that is in contact with the line. Don’t attempt to move the line. Keep others away.
  • When using an aluminum ladder, check above you for power lines. Aluminum is an exceptionally good conductor of electricity. If you touch a power line with an aluminum ladder, you could be seriously injured or killed.
  • If you are a North Carolina or South Carolina resident planning to cut limbs or trees that are near overhead power lines, call (800) 777-9898 or (800) POWERON. If there is a danger that the tree could fall on power lines, we will take down the line until you are finished and replace the line free of charge. Please call us several days in advance to perform this service. If you don’t call us, you could be liable for any damage to power lines caused by falling trees or limbs.
  • If you live in Ohio or Kentucky and plan to cut limbs or trees that are near overhead power lines, call (800) 544-6900.
  • Indiana residents should call (800) 521-2232.
  • When working on a roof, which may put you close to an overhead power line, avoid standing up and accidentally touching a line with your head or shoulder.
  • When moving antennas, metal gutters or other long metal objects, ensure that they don’t inadvertently touch a power line.
  • Never attempt to move an object (tree limb, kite, model airplane, etc.) from a power line yourself. Never climb the pole. Contact your local Duke Energy office.
  • When house painting, ensure that nothing, including you, your ladder, your paintbrush or roller, comes in contact with the power line supplying electricity to your home.
  • When pruning trees with a long-handled pruning instrument, especially a metal one, check above you to avoid touching a power line or any limbs that are growing into power lines.