Watch Out For Overhead & Underground Lines

Downed power lines-always assume they are energized!

Safety outside of your home may be as simple as understanding where some likely dangers exist. Here are a few of the most dangerous and easily preventable scenarios:

• Wires
  Always assume that utility lines are "live" - or energized - and keep far away from them. Be especially attentive after wind, ice, or heavy snow storms when wires may have fallen to the ground. If a power line hits your car, drive slowly away from the line if you can do so safely. If not, stay inside and wait for rescue workers. If you must get out because of fire or other danger, jump clear without touching metal and ground at the same time. Shuffle away keeping both feet on the ground.
• Climbing/Playing on Electrical Equipment
  Never let children climb a utility pole, a tower, or a tree near power lines. Kites or balloons that contact power lines can cause shock or fire, so fly them away from overhead lines. Don't let anyone shoot or throw stones at insulators. NEVER play on, sit on, or climb on electrical equipment of any kind. Pad-mounted transformers are for underground wiring. The transformers are inside sturdy metal cabinets, which are locked for safety. Never pry them open. If you find an unlocked door, call MVEA.
• Ladders
  Look up first! Ladders, regardless of what they're made of, can become electrified if brought into contact with overhead electric wires. Wooden and metal ladders can conduct electricity. Keep this in mind and use extra caution when you, or your contractor, are using a ladder while working outside around your home.
• Digging
  Colorado law requires underground utilities to be located BEFORE anyone digs. Whether you are a contractor working on a site or a homeowner working around your own home, please note: digging can be dangerous if you don't check first for underground wiring, cable or other underground utilities such as natural gas lines, water, or sewer lines. Contact the Utility Notification Center of Colorado www.uncc.org at 811 at least three days before you plan to dig and they will locate all underground utilities on your property at no cost to you.
• Power Tools
  Don't use outdoor power tools - electric drill, hedge clipper, sander, electric mower - in the rain or while working with or on wet surfaces. Consider installing a ground fault interrupter on outside outlets.
• Tree Work
  Electric wires may be concealed in the trees or shrubs you want to trim. Before you trim trees or shrubs, inspect the area carefully to ensure that it's clear of wires. MVEA has the right, within public or private rights-of-way and easements, to trim trees and otherwise remove obstructions that are in violation of National Electrical Safety Code requirements, or that may prohibit safe, efficient operation, or restrict safe access to electrical facilities. Trees are routinely trimmed around MVEA overhead electric distribution lines. Please contact MVEA if you notice a tree which may be creating an electrical hazard.
• Swimming Pools
  Be sure electrical equipment for your swimming pool is grounded properly. If you're installing a pool, have it inspected by your town's electrical inspector when the job is completed. A ground fault interrupter should be installed on your pool's electrical equipment. If a fault occurs in the equipment, the interrupter will instantly cut the power, preventing a serious electric shock. Do not have any plug-in appliances near the pool.
• Kites
  Never construct a kite from wire or metal; always use paper or wood. That goes for the tail, too; it should only be made of dry string or cloth. Check your string or cord to make certain that it does not contain wire or carbon filament that is conductive. ALWAYS keep your kite away from electric power lines and choose a clear, dry day for kite flying. If your kite should get snagged in power lines or in a tree in which lines might be concealed, don't try to free it yourself. Contact MVEA or seek help from your local authorities.
• Antennas & Satellite Dishes
  Before you work on a rooftop television or citizens band radio antenna or install a satellite dish, be sure the area is clear of power lines. Install these devices where they won't touch or fall on electric lines.

Pole Inspections

MVEA's contractor, Sundance Power Pole Inspections, inspects poles in our territory. Generally, they will wear company hats and have sign on their vehicle. They also carry an I.D Badge. If you have any questions, call MVEA