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Downed Power Lines FAQs

Find out everything you need regarding downed power lines

downed-power-line-faqs

Why did crews come out to investigate the downed wire I reported and leave it without fixing it and getting my lights back on?

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We treat every “wire down” report with heightened sensitivity because of the potential for danger. We respond to every call as soon as we can. In some cases, especially after storms, we will inspect the area and assess danger. We mark downed wires to identify those in our system and those that belong to another utility. If we have other critical repairs to get to, we may barricade the area safely until crews are available to come back and make final repairs.

What does the colored tape wrapped around a pole or wire mean?

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If you see yellow tape, it's in our network. If you see orange tape, it means it belongs to another utility. We will notify the proper utility that their wire is down.

Does reporting a downed wire accelerate the pace of restoration in my area?

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No. Reporting a wire down ensures we will assess the situation and make it safe for the public. Crews will make repairs to restore power as soon as they are able, which may require a return visit at a later time. Because responding to a downed wire is a priority for our crews after a major storm, we may have to pull additional crews working on repairs to respond to reports of a downed wire. Additionally, if crews respond to a report of a wire down and there is no wire to assess, they will return to their originally scheduled work location for the day.

How can I tell if the downed wire belongs to Dominion Energy or if it belongs to the cable company?

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At first glance, you may be unable to tell. Call us to report the downed wire and we will inspect the area, ensure it's safe and then tag it with yellow or orange tape. Yellow tape identifies the wire as a Dominion Energy wire, and orange tape identifies it as another utility. We will notify the owner utility of the wire down.

If downed lines are so dangerous, why does it sometimes take a long time for workers to come out and address it?

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During busy times and certainly after major storm events, it will take time for us to get to every downed line reported.

What should I do if I see a downed wire?

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Stay at least 30 feet away. Call us right away at 866-366-4357 and speak with an agent to report the downed wire. Please be patient if the wait time is longer than usual—it’s very important we know a wire is down.

Can I drive over a wire since my vehicle has rubber tires?

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No. Rubber tires will not adequately protect you from an energized downed wire.

Can I use a branch or other object to move a wire off my driveway or road?

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No. The line might be energized and the object itself could also become energized.

If a downed wire belongs to another utility, what happens next?

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Crews will first make sure the wire does not pose an immediate hazard. The wire will be flagged with orange tape indicating the wire isn't part of our network and the owner of the wire will be notified.

If the wire is marked with orange tape (meaning it belongs to another utility), can I move it?

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No. All downed wires can pose a threat to the public.
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