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Electrical Emergency

Report an Electrical Emergency

Electrical Emergency Tips

What to Do:

  1. If you see or suspect a downed power line, stay at least 20 feet away. Keep children and pets away as well.
  2. Call DTE Energy's 24-hour hotline at 800.477.4747.

Use Extreme Caution

  • Never assume a wire is not dangerous, even if it is lying still.
  • Never cross the yellow barrier tape that may be around downed power lines.
  • Exercise extreme caution near metal fences after severe weather, even if there are no downed power lines in sight. Electric currents will be strongest where a downed wire is touching the metal fence, but even a connecting fence several backyards away can be energized and dangerous
  • Call us immediately at 800.477.4747 in all cases

What to Do If a Power Line Is on Your Vehicle

  1. Call for help.
  2. Stay in the vehicle and wait.
  3. If you must get out of the vehicle because of fire or otherd anger, jump clear of the vehicle. Be sure not to touch your vehicle and the ground at the same time.

When electricity hits the ground, it spreads out in ripples of varying voltage — like a stone skipped across water. The voltage is highest in the ring closest to the vehicle and decreases with distance. If you place one foot in a different voltage zone than the other, you could become a conductor for electricity. It is very important you hop with both feet together or shuffle to get away from the vehicle.

Electrical Shock

Never touch a person who is being shocked. Act quickly, but keep yourself out of danger. If you can do so safely, unplug the appliance causing the shock or turn off the power. Call for medical help immediately. Once the victim is cleared from electrical contact, begin CPR.

Electrical Fire

Never throw water on an electrical fire. If you can do so safely, turn off the power or unplug the appliance causing the fire. Call emergency services immediately.