FIRE & LAW
FIRE & LAW SAFETY TIPS
Downed Powerline Safety
With April being Severe Weather Awareness month, be aware of hazards presented by downed power lines. If you spot a downed power line in your yard or surrounding area, call 911 immediately. Then report the downed powerline to your local power company.
If you see a power line on the ground, don't assume that it is not energized or that it is insulated. Stay at least 10 feet away from the wire and secure the area to keep others away, too. If you discover a low or fallen line, do the following: » Consider all wires energized and dangerous. Even lines that are de-energized could become energized at any time. Observe the minimum approach distance of 10 feet. A live wire touching the ground can cause electricity to travel through the ground, radiating outward from the contact point. Stay clear! » Do not attempt to remove a tree limb or any other object from a power line. Electricity can travel through limbs, especially when they are wet. When cleaning up after the storm, make absolutely sure that no power lines are nearby before cutting or trimming damaged trees and removing debris from your property. » If a broken power line falls on your vehicle, stay inside the vehicle and use your cell phone to call for help. The vehicle can become energized; you are safer remaining inside until help arrives. Metal objects like fences and guardrails can also become energized if a downed power line contacts them. Warn others not to approach or touch the vehicle and have them call for help. » If you must get out of the vehicle because of fire or other life-threatening hazards, jump clear of the vehicle so that you do not touch any part of it and the ground at the same time. Jump as far as possible away from the vehicle with both feet landing on the ground at the same time. Once you clear the vehicle, shuffle away with both feet on the ground, or hop away with both feet landing on the ground at the same time. Do not run away from the vehicle as the electricity forms rings of different voltages. Running may cause your legs to "bridge" current from a higher ring to a lower voltage ring. This could result in a shock. Get a safe distance away. » If someone makes contact with a downed power line, don't try to rescue them because you risk becoming a victim yourself. Call 911 for help. SIGN UP FOR CHANHASSEN COMMUNITY CONNECT communityconnect.io/info/mn-chanhassen
Ride Smart: Information about Electric Assisted Bicycles on Roads and Trails
When spring and summer arrive, many people will enjoy the change in weather by utilizing
the impressive trail system, paths, sidewalks and roadways throughout Chanhassen. As electric assisted bicycles (e-bikes) gain popularity, the Carver County Sheriff’s Office would like to provide essential information about the rules and regulations surrounding e-bikes, including key differences between e-bikes and motorized bikes. Safety Tips for E-Bike Operators » Wear a helmet. Although it is not required, we strongly recommend wearing a helmet when operating an e-bike. » Follow traffic laws. As with traditional bicycles, e-bike operators must obey all traffic laws, signals and signs. » Be aware of your surroundings. E-Bikes can travel faster than traditional bicycles, so it is crucial to stay alert and anticipate movements of pedestrians and vehicles. E-Bikes (Minnesota Statutes 169.011 and 169.222) Has pedals attached to provide human propulsion 750-watt motor or less (cannot go faster than 28 MPH) There are three different classes (Class 1/2/3) Allowed on trails and sidewalks No permit or registration is required to operate Must be 15 or older to operate Motorized Bikes (Minnesota Statutes 169.223) Does not have pedals Headlight and taillight required Not allowed on trails or sidewalks Must be registered to operate on roadways The operator must have driver's license or Motorized Bike Permit Helmet required for operators under 18
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CITY OF CHANHASSEN | SPRING 2025
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