Toronto Hydro has compiled a list of safety tips to help customers recognize, report and avoid electrical hazards at home, at work and around the city. To help keep everyone safe, the utility encourages customers to share the following tips with friends, family and neighbours:
- Stay back at least 10 metres — about the length of a school bus — from downed powerlines.
- Report downed powerlines right away at 416-542-8000 (press 1) or call 911.
- Stay inside your vehicle if a powerline lands on it and call 911.
- Stay at least three metres away from overhead powerlines.
- Don’t touch electrical equipment — contact voltage can be dangerous.
- Always contact Ontario One Call before your dig — it’s the law!
For more information, including videos and a safety quiz, please visit www.torontohydro.com/top-electrical-safety-tips.
QUICK FACTS
- Contact voltage is the electricity that may be present on the surface of outdoor structures, such as streetlights, hydro poles and transformer boxes
- Clearance guides, including tips and diagrams, are available to help ensure customers maintain a safe distance from Toronto Hydro equipment
- Before starting any electrical work, please contact Electrical Safety Authority to ensure the work is being done safely and visit esasafe.com/safety for more electrical safety tips