What to do in case of Collision with a utility pole or transmission tower
After a collision with a utility pole or transmission tower, the danger may not be visible. Even if the situation seems stable, electricity may still be present around the vehicle and on the ground.
Stay in the vehicle and dial 911 immediately.
Tell the dispatcher that the accident involves a utility pole or transmission tower.
You are in the vehicle
- Do not get out of the vehicle unless instructed to do so by emergency services.
- If a bystander tries to help you, tell them to stay at least 10 metres away from the vehicle.
In case of fire in the vehicle
Exit the vehicle carefully by following these instructions:
- Open the door and get ready to jump out of your vehicle.
* If there are children with you, hold them in your arms. - Keep your arms close to your body and your feet together on the plastic edge of the doorframe.
- Jump out in a single motion so that you don't touch the ground and the vehicle at the same time.
- Using one of the techniques described below, move more than 10 metres away from the vehicle, the utility pole and any power lines on the ground.
Two essential rules to follow
- Never touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
- Always keep both feet on the ground at the same time and close together.
You witnessed the accident
- Dial 911.
- Stay at least 10 metres away from the vehicle, the utility pole or any downed power lines.
- Tell others to stay at least 10 metres away.
- Tell everyone in the vehicle to stay inside.
- Follow the 911 dispatcher’s instructions.
When the situation is under control
- Wait for authorization from emergency services before returning to the vehicle, if applicable.
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have an injury or symptoms, or if you have received an electric shock.
- Emergency services will handle the removal of the vehicle involved in the accident.
Support and guidance
Experiencing or witnessing such an incident can cause stress, anxiety or emotional distress. Don’t hesitate to ask for support.
Info-Social 811
To speak with a psychosocial worker, available 24/7.
Personal network
Talking to a loved one or a coworker can also help in the days that follow the incident.
FAQ
Our answers to the most common questions.
Stay inside the vehicle and dial 911. Electricity can travel through the ground and into the vehicle. Do not get out of the vehicle unless a fire forces you to. If that happens, follow the safety instructions to avoid electric shock or electrocution while exiting.
Yes. The vehicle acts as a temporary shield against the surrounding ground, which may be electrified. It is safer to stay inside the vehicle until emergency services confirm that it is safe to get out.
Learn more about the physical phenomenon known as the Faraday cage effect, which protects you inside the vehicle.
Only in the event of immediate danger, such as a fire. If that happens, follow the safety instructions when exiting the vehicle to avoid electric shock or electrocution.
In case of a fire, there are two safe ways to get out of the vehicle and move away from it:
- Take small hops: Keep both feet together at all times as you hop. Make sure your feet leave the ground and land at the same time, without ever spreading them apart.
- Slide your feet along the ground: Move by sliding your feet without lifting them. Keep your feet together and in constant contact with the ground as you move.
This prevents current from flowing through your body. Touching the vehicle and the ground at the same time can create a path for the current, and having your feet apart on the ground can create a voltage difference that could cause an electric shock.
They must stay at least 10 metres away from the vehicle, the utility pole or any power lines on the ground, as the ground may be electrified. They should dial 911 and tell others not to approach the vehicle.
Yes. Electricity can travel through the ground, especially near a downed power line or a damaged utility pole.
At least 10 metres.
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