Duke Energy has provided the following safety tips for residents who encounter downed power lines in the wake of Hurricane Florence:
Stay away from downed or sagging power lines, and do not touch anything that is on or near a power line.
Keep children and pets away from areas where lines may have fallen.
If a power line falls across a car that you're in, stay in the car until professional assistance arrives. Warn others not to come near the car. If you must get out because of a fire, jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Don't touch the car when your feet are on the ground.
Report all power line hazards to your energy company.