Downed Power Lines

Storms are dramatic - and often loud - expressions of power. Even though electricity traveling through overhead power lines is silent, contact with that electricity can be just as dangerous as being struck by lightning. Don't EVER touch power lines or Delmarva Power electrical equipment!

Hurricanes and thunderstorms can cause tree limbs to hit power lines. Do not attempt to remove a tree limb or other object from a power line. If a power line falls to the ground, stay away from it. Do not attempt to move a downed power line with branches, boards, fiberglass garden tools, etc. These objects can conduct electricity, and you could be seriously injured or killed.

If you see a downed or damaged power line, immediately call 911 or call Delmarva Power:

    In New Castle County (Delaware) and Cecil and Harford Counties (Maryland), call 1-800-898-8042.

     In Kent and Sussex Counties (Delaware) and the Eastern Shores of Maryland and Virginia, call 1-800-898-8045 .

If you are in a car and a power line falls on it or near it, stay in the car.

Teach children never to play around electrical equipment and never to touch power lines. They could be seriously injured or killed if they touch live electrical equipment.

For additional electrical safety information, always read "Energy News You Can Use," Delmarva Power's monthly customer newsletter.

Additional Information

Click below to learn more about:
Responding to Storms and Natural Disasters (a downloadable PDF brochure)
Using Your Generator Safely (a downloadable PDF brochure)
Working Safely Near Utilities - Delaware, Maryland, Virginia (a downloadable PDF brochure)

Return to "Our Commitment to Safety"