A tree touching power lines is an electric danger that needs immediate handling. Besides potential damage to the wire, there is the risk of outages, fire, and electrocution from the current traveling through the tree. Electrocution may be possible even without direct contact with the wire or tree.
That is why a swift reaction is vital to safeguard life and property and to keep the power to your home on. However, trees on power lines are not a DIY project. Always consult a licensed electrician to help with these matters.
This article guides you on what to do and who to consult when a tree touches a power line in your yard.
Assessing The Situation
Before anything, you must assess the situation to know how dangerous it is and what to do next.
You must not forget that electricity may flow down the tree to the surrounding ground. So stay at least 30 feet away. Where possible, use binoculars or a camera to assess the situation. Please do not try to climb the tree or even touch it. Do not attempt DIY solutions like cutting or trimming. Also, wear non-conductive footwear like rubber boots.
Denver electricians are always ready to help you assess the situation.
Here is what to look out for:
1. Contact points – How much of the tree is in contact with the line? Generally, the larger the contact surface, the more serious it is. Depending on the contact area, you should arrange a scheduled visit or request immediate attention from the electricity supplier.
2. Physical damage – Look out for damage to the wire to see if it is sagging or if the insulation is compromised. Also, look out for hanging or broken branches, such may need an arborist to manage them.
3. Electrical hazards – Sparks, visible light, buzzing, humming, or crackling near the contact point indicate an electric arc. Also, look out for smoke, burning smell, or charring on the tree. These would be a direct signal of fire if power to the lines is not cut out in time.
4. Environmental factors – If it has been raining or snowing, the tree and ground may be wet, increasing the risk of electrocution and requiring extra caution.
Immediate Safety Measures
Once you have assessed the extent of the danger, you should take the following measures:
1. Stay at least 30 feet away from the danger zone. Current transmitted through the tree flows into and energizes the ground, creating a risk of electrocution within this zone.
2. Shuffle walk to avoid step potential if you are within the danger zone. Step potential is the variance in the current levels between your feet if you lift either. This enables the current to travel through your body and shock you. Shuffling keeps the current equal.
3. Warn others verbally or by putting up signs. You can also cordon off the areas to keep people and pets outside the danger zone.
4. Do not attempt to cut the tree or repair the line yourself if you are not qualified. Trees on power lines pose a significant danger that you must not take lightly.
5. Err on the side of caution. The danger may be significant even where there are no telltale signs of arcing. Moreover, a line that seems dead may suddenly become live and dangerous.
Contact Authorities
The safety approach would be to reach out to the relevant authorities if you notice any trees touching power lines. In Denver, Co, Xcel Energy is the primary provider of electricity.
Call Xcel Energy’s emergency number if you notice sparks, fire, or other emergencies. For non-emergency issues, reach out to Xcel Energy’s website or the customer care number during business hours.
Electrical contractors may be helpful in conducting a professional inspection and safety evaluation and implementing the appropriate safety measures. They may also coordinate with the utility company and arborist to safely remove the tree. You can find electricians in the Denver area by googling ‘electrical contractors near me’.
Preventive Measures
Simple preventive measures can help avoid the inconvenience and danger of trees falling on your power line.
Inspect trees close to your power line regularly and perform maintenance by trimming and pruning. You can also trim the canopy if it becomes too large. A qualified arborist is best equipped to handle all tree work near power lines.
When planting your trees, try to anticipate their reach in height and breadth. Opt for tree species whose foliage won’t reach the power line when fully grown. Trees that grow fast and tall may not be suitable to plant around power lines, as are trees whose branches break easily in the wind. Similarly, the tree’s adult height should be less than its height from the power line. For instance, a 10-meter-tall tree should be at least 10 meters away from the power line.
Arvada professional electricians will assess your property and help you make tailored recommendations if in the vicinity.
Why Hire Professionals When A Tree Touches A Power Line
Work on a tree that touches a power line is inherently dangerous. As such, it requires specialized knowledge to carry it out safely. In some instances, regulations require that a licensed professional assures the safest and most effective work.
Usually, Xcel Energy handles tree removal work for trees on power lines. However, electricians can help assess the severity of the situation safely. Electricians near Denver could come in vital as a preventive measure, evaluating and advising you on appropriate measures to avoid trees falling on a power line.
Conclusion
Trees touching power lines may pose a grave danger to lives and property when not handled properly. You must keep safe as you assess and alert others. Contact only qualified and authorized personnel to remove it. However, it is better to exercise prevention by planting and maintaining your trees in the proper manner.