Trees and Power Lines
IF YOU SEE A DOWNED WIRE, CALL 911 RIGHT AWAY
If a person or piece of equipment comes in contact with an energized power line, or if a power line has fallen to the ground:
- Do not approach or touch the line or anything in contact with the line.
- Call 911. Inform the operator that it’s an electrical emergency.
- ALWAYS assume that all wires are energized.
Look Up, Look Out, and Live
Remember to look up and look out for power lines when working outdoors. Contacting power lines can seriously hurt or even kill you.Look up first and stay away from power lines when you are using aluminum ladders, tree trimming equipment, pool skimmers, poles for harvesting fruit, or other tools that extend above your head. Metal conducts electricity. You will receive a dangerous electric shock if you are holding a metal pole or ladder that comes into contact with power lines.
Never trim trees that have high-voltage power lines going through them, or touch any tree limb that may fall into a power line. For the health and beauty of your tree, and for your family's safety, we strongly recommend contacting a qualified line-clearance arborist to trim and maintain your trees -- especially trees near power lines.
To report trees growing into power lines, go to our online Request Tree Trimming form or call 800-655-4555
Protect Your Children
Never build a tree house, climb in or play in any tree that is located near a power line. Never attach any steps, ladders, ropes swings or any objects that could assist in ascending a tree where power lines are present.
Palm and Wood Trees
Palm and wood trees should only be trimmed, removed or climbed by qualified line-clearance arborists if power lines are located in proximity of the tree. Take care when trimming tall palm trees located near and above power lines to prevent falling or sailing palm fronds from contacting the wires.
Fruit or Orchard Trees
You should always be careful when working in or around fruit or orchard trees. Always look around for power lines before starting any harvesting or fruit-picking activities. Contact SCE to have your tree inspected if you are in doubt. Use only qualified line-clearance arborists if power lines are present near your fruit or orchard trees.
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