VIDEO: FirstEnergy Safety Demonstration in Smithsburg Highlights Dangers of Power Lines

Yesterday, FirstEnergy held a safety demonstration at the Smithsburg Volunteer Fire Company, illustrating common power line hazards and equipping residents with critical guidance to prevent injury or death. The event highlighted real-world scenarios—from wildlife contact to back-fed generators—and reinforced key steps everyone should take if they encounter damaged or downed electrical equipment.

FirstEnergy technicians showcased multiple dangerous situations: a squirrel’s accidental circuit completion on energized lines, a vehicle door contacting downed wires, ladders touching live conductors, and the risks of portable generators inadvertently energizing the grid. By seeing these scenarios in action, community members gained a clearer understanding of how everyday objects and wildlife can create life-threatening electrical pathways.

Residents were reminded that any downed or low-hanging line must be treated as energized—even if it shows no sparks, smoke, or noise. FirstEnergy’s “STOP, LOOK, LIVE” protocol advises everyone to stay at least 30 feet away from distribution lines (and 100 feet from transmission lines), survey the area for other energized objects, and immediately call 911 to report the hazard. Under no circumstances should anyone approach, touch, drive over, or attempt to move a fallen wire.

If a power line falls onto a vehicle, drivers should carefully move the car away from the line if it can be done without risk. If the vehicle cannot be driven free, occupants must remain inside until FirstEnergy crews declare it safe to exit. In cases of imminent danger—such as fire—drivers and passengers should jump clear without touching the vehicle and the ground simultaneously, land with feet together, and shuffle at least 30 feet away before removing their feet from contact.

When reporting an electrical emergency, callers should dial 911 and provide the exact location—including street address, nearest cross street and direction, and pole number if visible—as well as the nature of the hazard and any injuries. If the scene is on private property, indicating whether the line is at the front, side, or rear of the premises helps first responders and utility crews reach the site more quickly.

Additional safety reminders include maintaining clearance when hauling boats under power lines, steering clear of substations and other utility installations marked with warning signs, and never damaging pole insulators, which keep electricity from traveling down the structure. Parents are encouraged to teach children to respect utility equipment and warning signs at all times.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from FirstEnergy

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