Blizzard on the road dura=ing a cold winter evening

Winter in southwest Colorado brings snowy adventures and scenic beauty, but it also creates hazards for drivers. Navigating icy roads requires caution, as vehicle accidents can have far-reaching consequences—not just for drivers but for their communities. One significant risk is damaging electrical equipment, which can create a dangerous hazard for you or your passengers, and lead to power outages affecting hundreds of homes. 

Drive Safely to Prevent Accidents 

  1. Slow down 

  1. Allow extra stopping distance 

  1. Maintain your vehicle for winter conditions 

Driving too fast or losing control on icy roads can result in hitting other vehicles, curbs, or even utility infrastructure like power poles and transformers. Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of power outages unrelated to weather or equipment failure.  

Of course, even if you’re doing everything right, accidents happen. 

What to Do If You Do Hit Electrical Equipment 

If the unexpected happens and your vehicle strikes a power pole, transformer, or other electrical equipment, knowing what to do can save your life: 

  1. Stay in Your Vehicle: If you hit electrical equipment, the area around your car may be electrified. Do not exit unless there is an immediate danger, such as smoke or fire. 

  1. Call 911: Alert emergency services and wait for utility crews to de-energize the equipment. 

  1. If You Must Exit: If fire forces you to leave your vehicle, jump out without touching the vehicle and ground simultaneously. Land with your feet together and hop or shuffle at least 30 feet away (30 feet is about 2 Subarus). That way, there cannot be a voltage difference between your feet, which would give electricity the chance to flow through your body, which could be deadly. 

Other Scenarios and Equipment to Steer Clear of: 

In all the following instances, follow the guidance above and call 911.  

  • Downed Power Lines 

  • Damaged Guy Wires (these neutral wires stabilize utility poles but can become energized if damaged.) 

  • Pad-Mounted Transformers (anything that looks like an electrical box)   

  • Substations 

Additional Safety Tips: 

  • Never attempt to remove a branch resting on a power line.  

  • Do not try to retrieve a drone or remote-controlled device stuck in a power line.  

  • Watch out for power lines when carrying ladders or poles. Keep at least a 10-foot clearance at all times.   

  • Keep children away from any electrical equipment including pad-mounted transformers and even trees near power lines. 

  • When using a portable generator, never plug it into a wall outlet to avoid dangerous backfeeding. 

If an individual causes damage to LPEAs electrical equipment, they are liable and responsible for all costs. LPEA members can help protect our grid and prevent extended outages by driving safely and slowing down this winter season.  

For more tips on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org or call LPEA at 970.247.5786.