Downed power lines in Penhold on Aug. 12. (Supplied)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

safety first

Penhold Fire warns about downed power lines

Aug 14, 2021 | 10:31 AM

Penhold Fire Department wants a discovery this week to be a reminder for people to never approach downed power lines.

In a release, the fire department notes it responded at about 3:40 p.m. on Aug. 12 to a suspected downed power line, which was caused by a commercial vehicle coming into contact with the wires.

Crews secured the scene, detoured traffic and had the utility provider confirm they were communications waires.

“Call 911 immediately if (downed power lines) are encountered,” they note.

Fortis recommends keeping the following distances while passing by or under power lines:

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3.6 metres – areas normally accessible to pedestrians only

4.1 metres – driveways to residences or garages

4.2 metres – areas where agricultural equipment is used, farm or yard entrances or farm field access roads

4.8 metres – lanes, alleys or entrances to commercial or industrial premises

5.3 metres – roads and highways, crossing oilfield lease roads

If your equipment, buildings or objects exceed these heights, you need to contact your electrical service provider before proceeding.