Down Power Lines
Downed power lines are dangerous. Never touch them. For safety’s sake, always assume that a fallen power line is live, and follow these guidelines:
- Do not touch the downed line with your hand or an object, such as a stick, broom, or pole.
- Avoid touching anything, such as a car, object, or equipment, or anyone who is in contact with a fallen power line.
- Avoid driving over a fallen power line.
- Call 911 immediately to report a fallen power line.
In Your Car
If your vehicle comes in contact with a downed power line, follow these safety rules:
- Stay inside your car. The ground around your car may be energized.
- Sound the horn, roll down your window, and call for help.
- Warn others to stay away. Anyone who touches the equipment or ground around your car can be injured.
- Use your mobile phone to call 911.
- Wait until the fire department, police, or Sellwood Power District workers tell you it’s safe to get out of your car before exiting the vehicle.
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Sellwood Power November 2025 Board Meeting
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 125 Meeting
Sellwood Power September 2025 Board Meeting
Sellwood Power July 2025 Board Meeting
What Else Is In It For Me?
There’s a lot to love about electric drive systems. Technology is the secret power behind them.
Convenient
Imagine never having to go to the gas station again! Most EV drivers charge from the convenience of home, and public charging stations are continuing to expand across the nation.
With an EV, your engine has fewer moving parts, so you can count on less maintenance and eliminate oil changes.
The Future of Transportation
As an EV driver, you’re focused on the future. You’re doing your part to make a difference for the environment and lead a movement toward the future of transportation, all while saving money.
How Will I Impact the Environment?
Electric vehicles (EVs) are clean, green and offer environmental advantages that benefit all of us.
How Much Will I Save?
Electric vehicles (EVs) cost less to drive and maintain than gas-powered vehicles.
Look Up & Live
Remember these important safety tips for overhead power lines:
- Look up before lifting ladders and other long-handled tools to avoid accidental contact with electric lines.
- Stay away from fallen or dangling power lines. Don’t touch the lines. Call 911 immediately.
- Contact us at (503) 771-5596 to report tree branches or limbs near power lines. Our tree-trimming crews are qualified to work around high-voltage lines and can cut the limbs for you. Never attempt to do the trimming, yourself.
Drones
Want to keep your drone free from danger? Keep it away from power lines. Flying too close may affect your drone’s signal. Landing on power lines could damage your machine or cause a power outage. Avoid dark and windy conditions, when you might not be able to keep your drone clear of power lines. If you are operating a drone that contacts a power line, call us right away at (503) 771-5596. Do not try removing the drone yourself.