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1 Important Alert(s)

Summer Safety

As the temperature increases, use these tips to beat the heat & stay safe:

  • To maximize the cooling effect of an air conditioning system, run fans to create a wind-chill effect to distribute and circulate cold air throughout a room.
  • Keep your window coverings closed to reduce the sun's heating of your home.
  • Know the signs of heat-related illness: Heavy sweating, muscle cramps, and a fast pulse are symptoms of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Identifying Service and Power Lines

You may see several different types of wires attached to utility poles near your home. Understanding the difference between electric power lines, cable lines, and telephone lines can help you stay safe and know who to contact if an issue occurs.

power lines

Distribution Lines

The wooden poles that run along roads and connect to homes and businesses are called distribution lines. These lines power our everyday lives but can be damaged by improperly planted or weakened trees. Closely monitor the growth of any trees near distribution lines on your property.

Transmission Lines

Transmission lines are large wooden or steel poles that transfer high-voltage electricity across long distances. These lines may run through designated rights-of-way or behind residential areas. Because these lines carry such high voltages, we have established rights-of-way where vegetation growth around transmission lines is strictly regulated to prevent damage.

Electric Line vs. Telephone or Cable Line

  • High-voltage electric lines are always at or near the top of the pole. These lines are usually found along neighborhood streets, but they may also be located in backyards or across open fields.
  • When multiple utilities share a pole, electric power lines are usually located at the top, while telephone and cable lines are placed lower on the pole.
  • Low-voltage electric lines are located several feet below high-voltage lines.
  • The low-voltage line attaches to your service weather head (a protective device located where the line connects to your residence.)

The diagram below illustrates how different electric lines are typically arranged on a utility pole.

different types of power lines

Important Note: During or after any storm event, consider all downed wires to be energized and dangerous—including telephone, fiber optic, and cable TV wires. They may be in contact with energized electric wires that are not within your view. Stay away and report downed electric wires, by calling us at 1-800-465-1212.