The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) reminds customers to avoid potentially deadly situations caused by fallen power lines or trees coming in contact with power lines.
SMUD warns that customers should stay well away from downed lines or lines contacting trees, fences, or any other objects or equipment. Customers should be especially careful when moving fallen tree limbs or other debris. If you must work in an area where there are power lines, always stay at least ten feet away from them – more if conditions require it. Particularly when wet, tree limbs and other objects can conduct electricity that can shock anyone coming in contact with them. Trimming trees near power lines should be handled by professionals.
To report problems with trees contacting power lines, call (916) 732-5854. To report downed power lines, call 1-888-456-SMUD (7683) or 911.