Man Electrocuted In Field Dies

From: WDIV, MI
Oct. 17, 2002

Neighbors Say Someone Knocked Down Pole
Posted: 11:55 a.m. EDT October 17, 2002
Updated: 3:11 p.m. EDT October 17, 2002
DETROIT-- A man died after being electrocuted in a field Thursday morning, Local 4 reported.

There was reportedly a downed wire as the man rode his bicycle through the field near Burdeno Street.

Neighbors said that someone hit a pole Wednesday night and knocked the power out in the area. They said that Detroit Edison crews came out and they thought the company fixed the problem.

The victim's name is being withheld at this time. The man could not hear or speak, according to neighbors.

More Information:

Detroit Edison warns to never touch a downed power line or anything it is in contact with -- even if there are no sparks. A live wire may whip or sweep through a wide area. A live wire may also lay still on the ground.

* Keep at least 10 feet away from downed wires and anything they are in contact with, including puddles of water and fences.
* Never drive across downed wires. If a power line falls across your vehicle, remain inside your car until help arrives.
* Stay out of flooded or damp basements or other areas if water is in contact with outlets, a furnace or any electrically operated appliance that is energized. The water or moisture may serve as a conductor of electricity. This can cause serious or even fatal injury.
* Cable or phone lines can be energized if they come in contact with electrical lines. Contact with any energized line can be fatal.

To report potential damage to a utility pole or any downed wire call Detroit Edison at (800) 477-4747.

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