A social media advisory warns residents not to cut or otherwise disturb downed communication lines because they may still be live and are needed for 911 and emergency calls.
The post said people should not touch, cut, drive over or pile snow on downed lines and should report damaged lines to their utility provider. Downed lines that appear de-energized can still carry current or carry critical voice and data connections used by emergency services.
The advisory also reminded residents to call 811 before digging to avoid striking buried utility lines. The post included the number 1-800-272-3020 for callers who need to reach a call-before-you-dig service. Call-before-you-dig programs connect excavators with local utilities so lines can be located and marked before work begins.
Utility crews and emergency responders rely on intact communications and power infrastructure during outages and severe weather, and unsafe handling of damaged lines can endanger both the public and first responders. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
