Don’t Play Guesswork with Electricity: What Every Long Islander Should Know

Electricity powers our lives—literally—but most people don’t think twice about how dangerous it can be. We see too often what happens when common misconceptions lead to risky choices. So, with May being Electrical Safety Month, we wanted to clear the air and talk real-world electrical safety, no fluff, no fear tactics—just what you actually need to know to stay safe.

Downed Wires Can Be Silent—but Still Deadly

When a wire falls, most people expect sparks and flashing lights. In reality, a live wire on the ground might not make a sound or move at all. It could look harmless—but still carry enough energy to seriously injure or kill. Always treat a downed wire like it’s energized, even if it “looks off.” Stay far back (at least 30 feet), and call 1-800-490-0075 or 911 immediately.

Your Car Isn’t a Get-Out-of-Jail-Free Card

Let’s say a power line falls on your car—don’t jump out. The safest place to be is inside the vehicle. The car’s frame acts as a barrier against the electric current, but stepping out can cause electricity to flow through your body. Unless there’s a fire, stay inside and wait for help. If you must get out, here’s the only safe way: jump clear of the vehicle without touching it and the ground at the same time, and then shuffle away with your feet together.

Not All Protection Gear Actually Protects

This might surprise you, but things like rubber-soled shoes, household gloves, or wooden ladders won’t keep you safe from electricity. Most of these items aren’t made from the right materials to block electric current—especially if they’re dirty or wet. Even wood becomes conductive in humid or rainy conditions. So don’t count on your everyday gear to protect you.

Distance Is Your Best Defense

A good rule of thumb? Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines—and even more if it’s windy or wet. Never fly drones or kites near them, and always call 811 before digging on your property. Whether you’re trimming trees or setting up outdoor lighting, assume the lines are live and dangerous.

Voltage Isn’t the Whole Story

It’s not just high voltage that’s risky—low-voltage situations can be just as lethal. What matters more is the current (amperage), which is what disrupts your body’s electrical signals and can stop your heart. Translation: don’t mess with any live wires or outlets, no matter how “low” they seem.

Why You Should Always Report Suspicious Situations

Even if you’re unsure, report it. A sagging line, a wire on a tree, flickering lights—if it doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Our crews are trained to assess and fix the issue safely. One phone call could prevent a power outage, fire, or injury.

Safety isn’t dramatic—it’s everyday awareness. We’re here to help you make the safest call, visit Safety Tips – PSEG Long Island for more!