As storm season starts to ramp up, Ameren Illinois is encouraging residents to stay away from downed power lines.  In the aftermath of a storm, Ameren reminds its customers to assume all downed lines and power poles are energized. If you do see a downed line, keep family, neighbors, and pets away and call Ameren.  It is hard to tell the difference between power, cable, or phone lines.

In this case, you should treat them all the same and stay away. Rick Johnson, Manager of Vegetation Management for Ameren Illinois says that if you see a power line, to stay away.

Johnson says that they jump into immediate action when they get a call for a downed line.

Always assume all power lines are energized and be wary as some lines may be hard to see. 

Look out for downed power lines near chain link fences because electricity can kill.

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