Discussions

Manitoba Hydro is currently running Info Ads narrated by Lynda Carter Hydro Spokes Person describing how to exit a car that is in contact with a downed Power Line. They say you should jump clear of the car without touching the sides of the doorway, and slowly walk away. They fail to say that Hydro breakers will reset 3 times. They may look safe, but they could re-energize.  
 
A power line of 4,000 volts will send energy to you and cause electrocution if you are within 3 feet of it. How can you tell the voltage of the power line that is touching your car? You cannot.  
 
Many years ago now a worker operating a Crane on the grounds of Canadian Oxy Chemicals Limited, Richmond Ave east touched a Power Line with the Boom of the Crane and thought he could jump free by running down the side walkway of the Crane. When he hit the ground he exploded in a ball of flames and perished.  
 
My advice is to stay in the car until a Hydro worker makes the line safe. That means de-energized. Also they fail to say that if you come across a car with a downed Power Line touching it, stay well away and call for professional help.  
 
I hope they pull this type of advice from TV before someone follows it and dies.