Safety
Electrical safety is mainly an exercise in common sense, but it helps to know some fundamentals of how electricity works. Use our guidelines to keep your family and business safe.
Safety basics
Electricity is always seeking a path to the ground through water, trees, metal, wood, concrete, as well as people and animals. These things don’t have to touch a wire to electrocute you, so always keep yourself and your equipment at least 20 feet away from overhead power lines.
Downed powerline safety
Never touch a downed power line – or anything else the line is touching. Always assume power lines are live and stay at least 50 feet away (that’s a little longer than a city bus).
Remember, a downed line doesn’t have to spark to be dangerous.
Here are some safety tips:
Call PGE immediately at 503-464-7777 or 800-544-1795 to report any downed utility line. If you see a downed or sagging line, stay at least 50 feet away!
Wildfire safety and prevention
For us, being prepared is a year-round effort to protect people, property and public spaces. We're using innovative technology to prevent fires.
Outdoor safety
Be safe around electricity when working or playing outdoors. Always keep yourself and your equipment at least 20 feet away from power lines.
Medical needs
Use medical life-support equipment? Have a plan in place and consider a backup generator in case of an extended power outage.
Generator safety
A home generator can be a convenient backup solution during a power outage, if you use it safely.
Outdoor lighting
See options for installing streetlights and outdoor area lighting.
Home safety
Learn how to use electricity safely in your home. Also, stay informed about power outages and learn how to prepare and respond if one affects you.
Business safety
Electrical safety is a key part of workplace safety. Always use caution around all electrical circuits and equipment. See workplace electrical safety tips.
Kids’ safety
Show your kids how to use electricity safely and check out our free electricity education resources for families and teachers.
Contractors and landscapers
Keep your crew safe, whether they’re digging, building, landscaping or performing routine maintenance.
Tree safety and maintenance
Get tips on how to maintain your trees and shrubbery safely around power lines.Â
Free wood chips
We offer free wood chips in neighborhoods where we’re actively working. Interested? Find out how to request them.