What should be done immediately upon noticing a downed power line?

When a downed power line is observed, the immediate priority is to maintain safety and minimize risk. Reporting the situation to the appropriate authorities ensures that trained professionals can handle the hazardous situation safely. Keeping a safe distance from the downed line is crucial because power lines can still be live and pose significant dangers, such as electrocution or fire hazards.

The focus on keeping a safe distance allows for proper response protocols to be initiated without putting oneself or others at risk. This highlights the importance of safety first in any electrical emergency situation. Engaging with the downed line or trying to clean up the area can lead to severe injuries or worse, whereas reporting it allows trained personnel to address the situation efficiently and safely.