Fallen Power Line

A power line on the ground is one of the most dangerous electrical situations there is. The wire and everything it touches — fences, water, vehicles, the ground itself — may be live and lethal. Sydney Power Group (SPG) is a Level 2 ASP responding 24/7 across Greater Sydney.

Stay at least well clear of any downed line and assume it is live. If it's life-threatening — someone in contact, a fire, or a line across a road — call 000 immediately. Report the fallen line to your network provider, then call SPG on 0466 125 125 for the private-side make-safe.

Danger — Never Approach a Downed Line

A fallen conductor can energise the ground for several metres around it, so even getting close is dangerous. Do not touch anything the line is touching, don't try to move it, and keep people, pets and vehicles well back. Water and metal fences can carry the current further than you'd expect.

For life-threatening situations call 000 first. The network provider (Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy or Essential Energy) manages their poles and wires — report it to them, and call SPG for anything on your private service.

Network vs Private Overhead Lines

The network provider is responsible for their overhead mains up to your connection point; the private overhead mains and point of attachment on your side are yours — and that's where our Level 2 accreditation applies.

We make safe the private overhead service, coordinate the isolation with the network, and reinstate the line once it's safe. If the line snapped near the house wall, see service line pulled off house.

Report It, Then Call Us

A downed line is a true emergency — keep everyone clear. After alerting 000 and your network provider, call SPG on 0466 125 125, or book emergency help so we can make the private side safe.

See related help on the emergency electrician hub.