Electric Safety

Lodi Electric has a reputation for providing reliable electric service. There are some circumstances beyond our control such as storms, accidents involving power poles, equipment vandalism or other items getting in the power lines. 

If your power goes out, check the neighborhood to see if others are out. If it is just your home, check your fuse box for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. If the outage is widespread, call Lodi Electric 24/7 at 209-368-5735 

In the event of a widespread outage, we may experience a high call volume. Please be patient. You can register to receive alerts via text or email by signing up through our alert center. Go to http://www.lodi.gov/list.aspx  to sign up today.

Crews working in your area

Lodi Electric Utility is responsible for the operation and maintenance associated with reliable distribution of electricity to our customers. To help ensure safe and reliable electric service, our crews perform maintenance work throughout the City. Safety is always a priority for Lodi Electric. Please be aware of crews working in your area. Look for the following indicators showing there is work being done in your area:

Line worker on power poleBucket Trucks and line crews on poles

Utility Work Ahead Caution SignTraffic safety signage

Contractors working near power lines

  • Always follow OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulatory requirements
  • Do not load or unload materials underneath lines
  • Keep a 10 foot circle of safety between you, your equipment and the line
  • The longer the span between poles, the more likely the lines can swing with wind
  • Treat all power lines as energized
Line VoltageAbsolute limit of approach
Up to 50,000 Volts10 Feet
50,001 to 115,000 Volts12 Feet
115,001 to 230,000 Volts16 Feet
230,001 to 500,000 Volts25 Feet

Contractor Overhead Line Safety Brochure

  1. Overhead Power Line Safety for Contractors working in the City of Lodi (PDF)

Downed Power Line

If you see a power line down, do the following:

  • Avoid touching the line
  • Call 9-1-1
  • Do not touch anything in contact with the line
  • Do not drive over any downed lines

If you are inside a car and a line comes down, do the following:

  • Stay inside, do not attempt to leave the vehicle
  • Wait for emergency personnel or line-workers to tell you it is safe to exit
  • Warn people to stay away. Anything touching the line can cause injuries to others

Indoor safety tips

  • Do not use electrical cords that are frayed or cracked
  • Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn't fit
  • Never remove the third prong from a three pronged plug 
  • Never use a stove, oven or other non-ventilated appliances to heat your home
  • Protect children or pets from outlets by placing plastic safety caps over any not being used
  • Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) in rooms where water and electricity may come in contact such as bathrooms or kitchens
  • Use power strips to help protect against power shortages, especially during a storm
  • Use the correct size wattage light bulb for fixtures and lamps

Outdoor Safety Tips

  • Avoid overloading outlets
  • Before you dig call 8-1-1
  • Check the amperage rating on outdoor extension cords. The amperage rating needs to be higher than the electrical device
  • Keep electric cords away from heat and water sources
  • Keep electrical devices away from water
  • Keep kites away from power lines
  • Never use tools or extension cords that are electrically operated in the rain or in wet conditions
  • Never used frayed extension cords
  • When using tools or extension cords outdoors, make sure they are marked for outdoor use8-1-1 Call before you dig

Storm Safety Tips

In the event of a storm, prepare an emergency kit and store in a place that is easily accessible. Examples of items to include in the kit but are not limited to the following:

  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • Medications
  • Water bottles
  • Radio
  • First Aid Kit
  • Can opener
  • Portable phone charger

Power Outage Safety Tips

  • Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from possible power surges
  • Do not call 9-1-1 to ask about a power outage. Call Lodi Electric at 333-6766, or 368-5735 for electric emergencies.
  • Do not use gas stove to heat your house
  • Have an alternate plan for medicines or medical devices that may be affected
  • Keep freezers and refrigerators closed
  • Use power strips to help avoid damage to electronics from power surges

Portable Generator Safety Tips

  1. Portable Generator Safety Tips (pdf)