Tree in the line? Is your life worth more than $1,000?
- If you see a tree resting on a power line, contact GVEA immediately.
It sounds corny, but it’s true. The electricity traveling in our power lines seeks the easiest and shortest path to the ground – don’t make yourself the path. If a tree falls into the power line – stay away. Don’t touch it. It could easily be charged.
Just last week, a Fairbanks resident was clearing a lot and knocked a tree into a power line. He attempted to remove the tree himself and was shocked. Thankfully, he’s ok, but others have not been so lucky. Some of you might remember the local woman who died five years ago in May from a similar tree-related incident.
If you do fell a tree into a power line, don’t risk your life; call GVEA immediately: 452-1151. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 or more depending on the time of day and distance to the location.
Why take the risk? If you are planning to cut down a tree near a power line, try one of these better options:
- Call GVEA. Ask for the power to be temporarily disconnected at your location. This is FREE of charge provided it takes place during business hours.
- Hire a licensed and bonded contractor to remove the tree for you. It’s not cheap, but it’s certainly less expensive than cutting a tree into an energized line.
