Tips for identifying utility lines
by Robert Yang | Feb. 3, 2022
Have you ever noticed a few utility lines in your neighborhood that may be hanging too low? It’s definitely a hazard — a vehicle could clip the line, dragging utility poles and other equipment down with it. When utility lines aren’t hanging correctly it’s also easier for weather and other elements to bring them down completely. The best thing to do in this scenario is to report it, but you’ll need to identify the type of line first because utilities aren’t able to repair each other’s equipment. Here are a few tips to help you identify if it’s a power line or communication line.
Contacting the correct utility will help expedite repairs so try to determine which type of line it is first.
You can easily identify a utility line based on where it’s located on the pole. Hawaiian Electric’s power lines are always suspended at the very top and held in place with an insulator to prevent high voltage electricity from burning the pole. The lines are made of steel or aluminum and spaced apart from each other. They should never contact one another or you’ll see sparks flying.
Sometimes, we share utility poles with telecommunication utilities. Lines suspended at the lower section of the pole are communication lines (for cable TV, internet or telephone). Unlike power lines, communication lines are wrapped in a conduit so it looks much thicker in comparison. The conduit also gives the line a rubberlike appearance. Because of the conduit, communication lines can contact each other safely and are usually bunched together. Please contact Spectrum or Hawaiian Telcom if you notice a communication line hanging low or on the ground.
If you ever come across a low-hanging or downed power line, the right thing to do is report it to Hawaiian Electric’s 24/7 Trouble Line:
- Oahu: 1–855–304–1212
- Maui: 808–871–7777
- Molokai/Lanai: 1–877–871–8461 toll free
- Hawaii Island: 808–969–6666
Do not try to move the line! Downed power lines can still be energized and can be lethal if contacted. Before calling us, be sure to stay at least 30 feet or three car lengths away. Be aware of your surroundings and take note of any objects the line could be touching, as it could easily energize them too. Warn those walking in your direction of the danger ahead. Whatever you do, don’t try to fix it yourself or move it aside. Touching a downed power line is downright dangerous!
Robert Yang is a digital communications and social media specialist at Hawaiian Electric.
