Seasonal and Recreational Safety

Recreational Vehicles

Make sure to keep safety in mind when enjoying the great outdoors. While operating your snowmobile or ATV stay away from snow banks near power lines and substations. If traveling over a power line right-of-way, be especially cautious of guy wires, which may not be as noticeable during winter conditions.

Snowmobilers can be injured or killed by utility pole guy wires. Be extra cautious if traveling along a power line right-of-way.

Reservoirs

Reservoirs around hydroelectric generating plants are not safe for snowmobiling, ice fishing or other recreational activities. Do not swim in reservoirs around hydroelectric generating plants. The operation of the plant may cause water conditions in the reservoir to change quickly, creating strong underwater currents and unstable ice conditions.

Hunting Season

Insulators, cross arms or utility poles should never be used for target practice. One thoughtless shot at a power line can cause a power outage to homes, hospitals and businesses. You are also jeopardizing the safety of our employees and those who may unknowingly come in contact with downed wires.

Do not try to retrieve a ball, or any object, from inside a substation fence. Contact Newfoundland Power for assistance.

Swimming Near Hydroelectric Generating Plants

Do not swim in reservoirs around hydroelectric generating plants. The operation of the plant may cause water conditions in the reservoir to change quickly, creating strong underwater currents that can overpower even the strongest swimmer.

Trees and Treehouses

Don't build a tree house in trees near power lines, and be careful not to allow kids to climb trees growing near power lines. Never attempt to touch an object tangled in a power line. Always call Newfoundland Power for assistance.

Kites and Model Planes

Fly kites and model planes in open fields away from power lines. If a kite or model aircraft becomes entangled in a power line, never try to retrieve it. Call Newfoundland Power for assistance.

Use only plain string for kite lines. Wire or cords containing metal threads could pose a shock hazard if they accidentally touch power lines.

High Snow Banks

During the winter season, severe snowstorms and snow removal equipment can cause a build up of high snow banks near power lines. Overhead power lines are not insulated with a protective outer covering. Touching them, or even coming close to them, can cause serious injury or even death.

High snowbanks can bring children within contact range of live wires. Talk to your kids about the dangers of electricity and the no-go areas.

While we take care to maintain safe conditions around all of our properties, there may be instances when winter storms cause temporary snow build up around substations. Ensure your children know the dangers associated with entering a substation yard.

Make Safety A Tradition

• Check each holiday light string before using it. If you find a frayed cord, a damaged plug, or a rusted light socket, discard the string.
• Use the correct lights for the job. Don't use outdoor lights indoors; they usually burn hotter than indoor lights. Also, do not use indoor lights outdoors because they may not be waterproof.
• Never staple or nail through electrical wires and always keep a bulb in each socket.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits and connect lights to power strips that have a built-in circuit breaker and several outlets. 
• Remind children never to touch lights or plugs with wet hands. Remember to unplug indoor lights when going to bed.
• Don't use extension cords that are frayed or have cracked insulation or damaged plugs. Extension cords can be a big help, but if not used properly they can lead to fires.
• LED lights are safer - they remain cool regardless of how long they have been on, and they are more durable, with bulbs that are virtually indestructible.
• Cutting a tree near power lines can be very dangerous. Make sure you look up to ensure the tree will not fall into a power line and there are no power lines contacting the tree before you begin cutting. Never attempt to remove a tree that has fallen into a power line. This action could result in serious injury, even death.