Skip to content

Staying safe around overhead lines

house connected to an overhead line

Stay three metres back, stay safe 

Whether you’re working on your home, trimming trees, or getting outside to play, remember to stay at least three metres (10 feet) away from power lines. That means above, below, and beside.

Why three metres?

A tree or an object can still be a hazard even if they aren’t touching an energized power line. Electricity can arc or jump between an energized line and a tree, a tool and even a person if they get too close. By staying back three metres, you'll be safe.

How far is three metres?

Not sure if you're too close? Three metres is equivalent to the distance of two bikes, three baseball bats, or the height of a basketball hoop.

how long is three metres

Working safely around overhead power lines

Jobs like trimming trees, cleaning gutters, or doing home renovations might take you close to nearby power lines. It's important to remember that it isn't only your body that needs to stay three metres (10 feet) away. Any branches you might be trimming, the tools you're using, and even your ladder all need to stay clear.

Watch the video to learn more about staying safe when doing yard work that takes you close to power lines. 

If your profession has you working near electrical infrastracture, see our training resources for workers

Our employee spokesperson, Dave chats with Tarek about how to stay safe when doing yard work.

Staying safe when playing outside

Remember to keep yourself and any objects you're holding at least three metres away from a power line when playing outdoors. If something you're playing with, like a balloon or a kite, gets stuck in a power line, never try to retrieve it. Call 1 800 224 9376 to report it.

Remember to place trampolines a safe distance from power lines, so that even when jumping, you're three metres away on all sides.

Watch the video to learn more about staying safe when playing outside. 

Dave gets tips from Tarek on how to stay safe when playing outdoors.


Keeping our poles clear

For safety reasons, we ask that you keep power poles clear of signs, posters, banners, and other objects. Our crews need open access to poles for maintenance, and emergency repairs.

Signs can cover up defects that we look for when inspecting our equipment. Nails and staples used to attach signs can injure our crews. They can also break down power poles faster, compromising the strength and safety of the pole.