Things to remember with downed power lines

Duke Energy gave a vivid example showing that your body is an excellent conductor of electricity.

A demonstration showed a leather glove quickly going up in flames when slightly touched to a power line. Duke called this an "energized line". It's exactly what happens when storms create downed power lines like in Moscow, Ohio after the tornado. 

Everyone knows to stay away from the downed line, but in some cases, getting within even 10 feet could generate a necessary connection that could be deadly.

The demonstration continued with a toy squirrel. Squirrels often come in contact with power line when climbing up a pole and we saw the line sizzle and the transformer blow up!

"The electric is trying to find the path of least resistance from the energized line to the ground so anytime, whatever conductive object allows it to go to the ground quickest, it's going to take that path," said Mike Franzen of Duke Energy.

Here are some common sense tips worth repeating:

• Don't approach the lines or touch them with anything
• Call 911. The operator will in turn call Duke to check things out
• Check debris before removing it, just in case lines are tangled up inside

What happens if you end up with a power line on your car? The first line of defense is obviously to call for help. Don't move and stay put. Keep people away from the car.

If your life is threatened, by something like a fire in the car, the absolute last line of defense is this:

Use the edge of the car to bring your feet together and keep your arms close to your side. Don't touch the ground in anyway yet. Then, bring your feet together. As you come off of the car, keep your body in sync and land with your feet at the same time. Then proceed to hop away from the vehicle. (Watch the video player for a demonstration.)