According to safety protocols, how should all downed power lines be treated?

Downed power lines should be treated as if they are energized because they may still carry an electrical current, posing a significant risk of electrocution or severe injury. This perspective is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals approaching the area, as many might assume that a downed line is safe to touch or approach. In reality, power lines can become live due to various circumstances, such as contact with other conductive materials or faulty equipment.

Maintaining a mindset that these lines are energized helps establish a safety perimeter around the hazard and prompts individuals to follow proper safety protocols, such as alerting authorities and evacuating the area. This understanding is critical in emergency situations to prevent accidents, injuries, or fatalities.