Thirty feet away reminder

by Sharon Higa | May 24, 2022

For many of us the power of electricity is most relevant when we flick on a light switch or charge our phones. So when a storm or high wind event knocks out a power line and our homes go dark, all we feel is annoyance, especially if it interrupts a particularly good K-drama. Ok, I admit maybe that’s just me.

Seriously though, if a storm-tossed tree branch or even a motor vehicle accident knocks out your electricity, it could be that power lines from a utility pole have fallen to the ground. If this is the case, the most important thing to remember is to stay away — at least 30 feet or more away from the downed power lines. That’s because those lines could still be energized and dangerous.

So what does 30 feet or more look like? As someone who once owned a Toyota Camry sedan, I’d say that’s about the length of two Camrys. Or the length of TheBus in Honolulu, which is about 40 feet. Either way, it’s far away.

If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, this video shows you good instructions on what to do. While key is staying calm, I know easier said than done, the important thing is DON’T touch the ground and equipment that is in contact with the power line so you can avoid an electrical shock.

As safety is a high priority at Hawaiian Electric, find more tips in its Handbook for Emergency Preparedness and the Downed Power Line Safety flyer. Keep it handy, especially during the upcoming hurricane season, and stay safe!

Sharon Higa is a senior communications consultant at Hawaiian Electric Company.