According to Loudoun County public safety officials, several power lines are down and downtown Purcellville is shut down to traffice; downtown Main Street is shut down in Purcellville. Motorists in the area should seek alternate routes. Traffic must utilize Southern Connecter Road past 32nd Street and Hirst Road.
Meanwhile, in the aftermath of the high winds the area has experienced, Loudoun County officials remind residents to be aware of potential hazards, such as downed power lines. If you see a power line on the ground, stay away! According to local utility companies, water on the ground -- even damp pavement -- and debris near power lines could be energized and deadly.
Be aware of hazards presented by downed power lines.
- Consider all wires energized and dangerous. Even lines that are de-energized may become energized at any time.
- Stay at least 20 feet away from the wire.
- Electricity can travel through the ground. Therefore, a live wire touching the ground can harm you even if you don't touch the wire.
- Electricity can also travel through tree limbs. Never remove tree limbs or other items that are touching or near a downed wire.
- Never use any object to move a downed wire.
If a broken power line should fall on your vehicle:
- Stay inside the vehicle until help arrives, as your car may be energized.
- Warn others not to touch the vehicle and have them call for help.
- If you must leave the vehicle because it is on fire, jump as far away as possible with both feet landing on the ground at the same time. Do not touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time.
- If someone makes contact with a downed power line, don't try to rescue them because you risk becoming a victim yourself. Call 9-1-1.
If you see a downed power line, contact your local utility. The number for Dominion Power is 1-866-DOM-HELP (1-866-366-4357). The number for NOVEC is 1-888-335-0500.
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