Trim Down on Safety Hazards

Keeping up with home improvements can seem like a never-ending chore. That's why many people look to day laborers for help completing small construction projects or yard work. No matter the task, it's important to complete them safely.

Tree trimming can pose a threat especially if branches are growing too close to power lines. That was Jurupa Valley resident Lauri Stein's concern with the ones in her backyard.

"We have a handful of trees on our property near power lines, and they were getting too close for comfort," Stein said. "We wanted to hire someone to cut them but decided to call Southern California Edison first to find out what we should do. They ended up sending an inspector to take a look and scheduling a time to come back to cut the trees themselves."

Trees and other vegetation can cause safety hazards and power outages if they grow into or near power lines. To combat that issue, SCE offers a free "make safe" program where customers can call 1-800-611-1911 and crews will assess and remove portions of a customer's trees that are encroaching on the lines. Residents can then continue their yard work with much less danger of getting too close to energized wires.

"It makes me feel a lot safer knowing the trimming is going to be handled professionally," Stein said.

Every year, SCE inspects 1.6 million trees throughout its 50,000-square-mile service area that might pose a hazard to power lines.

"Once we trim the trees a safe distance from power lines, we still recommend hiring a licensed tree trimming professional if customers want to further prune or remove it later," said Ted Gribble, SCE senior manager of Enterprise Risk Management and Public Safety. "Licensed trimmers understand how to do the work safely and the hazards to watch out for."

Use the same caution around home construction projects close to electrical equipment. Make sure to keep all materials clear of any power lines, which may be overhead or underground.

"Try to avoid construction projects where equipment or people are anywhere near an overhead power line. If you have no other choice, call us and we may be able to take steps to de-energize the wires during the work," said Gribble. "And remember to keep yourself and tools at least 10 feet away from power lines."

If the project involves digging or excavating, call 811 first to locate any underground utilities for free.

During home construction projects, keep all materials clear of any power lines, which may be overhead or underground.

Before trimming, call SCE to request an inspection at 1-800-611-1911 and follow these tips:

• Look carefully for lines that may be masked or blocked by greenery.
• Consider all power lines energized and dangerous.
• Do not touch any power lines, including low voltage ones that run from utility poles to buildings.
• If you must work closer to power lines than the required 10 feet clearance distance, SCE will clear a safety zone for you.

By following these tips, you can ensure your home improvements are beautiful and safe.

To learn more about SCE's vegetation management programs, visit sce.com/powerlines.