Staying safe around overhead lines

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

Electricity can arc across a gap, to you or even to tools and ladders that you're using. That's why keeping a safe distance is always important. By staying back three metres, you know you'll be safe.

Working safely around overhead power lines

Tarek, one of our operations employees, knows what it takes to stay safe. 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 need to stay clear.

If you're planning on pruning or removing trees near your home, make sure you have all the knowledge you need to stay safe.

Know when to call

Trees and other plants growing near power lines can interfere with the electrical system if they aren't properly maintained. As a property owner, you're responsible for keeping the wires on your property clear of vegetation. You can perform your own pruning as long as you keep yourself, your equipment, and all parts of the tree at least three metres away from the power line.

If any part of the tree or hedge you need to trim is within three metres of a power line, give us a call at 1 800 BCHYDRO (1 800 224 9376), and we'll help assess the situation.

If a tree falls on a line, you'll need to call 911.

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.

Staying clear when playing outside

Tips for playing safely outside

If you're flying a kite, find an open area like a park, or a beach, far away from any overhead lines.

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

If something you're playing with, like a balloon, or a kite, gets stuck in a power line, don't try to retrieve it. You could be harmed if you're still holding on to the item when it touches a power line.