Avoid Touch and Step Potential

Step potential and shuffleTo avoid touch potential, never touch anyone or anything that may be in contact with a source of electricity. If you do, you will become a victim, as well. Wait until the electricity is turned off before attempting a rescue.

Do not touch downed power lines or anything they are touching, which may include:

  • Phone or cable lines
  • Utility poles
  • Vehicles
  • Metal fences
  • Ladders
  • Trees
  • The ground

To avoid step potential near an energized, grounded object, shuffle at least 30 feet away, keeping both feet close together and on the ground at all times.